Fairly: meaning, definitions and examples

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fairly

 

[ ˈfɛrli ]

Adverb / Adjective
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adverb

used to indicate something is reasonable or moderately

In a fair and just manner; without favoritism or bias. In a moderately sufficient manner. To a moderate extent.

Synonyms

justly, moderately, reasonably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fairly

When describing something to a moderate or reasonable extent, though not extremely.

  • I think the movie was fairly interesting
  • She did fairly well on her exam
justly

When something is done in a morally right, fair, and deserved manner. It often implies a sense of justice or righteousness.

  • The judge ruled justly in favor of the innocent
  • They were justly punished for their crime
reasonably

When something is done in a sensible or logical manner; within the bounds of reason.

  • He was reasonably upset after hearing the news
  • The products are priced reasonably
moderately

When describing something that is done or occurs to a medium degree; not excessively nor insufficiently.

  • He drinks alcohol moderately
  • The task was moderately difficult

Examples of usage

  • He treated all his employees fairly and with respect.
  • She performed fairly well in the exam, but she could have done better.
  • The price of the car was fairly reasonable.
Context #2 | Adjective

used to describe something that is just or reasonable

In accordance with the rules or standards; legitimate. Free from bias, dishonesty, or injustice. Moderately good; acceptable.

Synonyms

just, moderately, reasonably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fairly

Use when expressing something that is true to a moderate degree, often implying a level of justice or impartiality.

  • The teacher graded the tests fairly
  • The room was fairly clean
reasonably

Use when indicating that something is within the bounds of reason or logic; not extreme or excessive.

  • The prices were reasonably low
  • He explained his point reasonably well
moderately

Use to describe something happening to a medium or limited extent; not too much, not too little.

  • She exercises moderately to stay healthy
  • The meal was moderately spicy
just

Use to indicate something happening exactly at the moment or by a small margin, can also imply fairness or correctness.

  • I just finished my homework
  • His decision was just

Examples of usage

  • She made a fairly accurate assessment of the situation.
  • The judge gave a fairly lenient sentence to the first-time offender.
  • It's not a perfect solution, but it's fairly effective.

Translations

Translations of the word "fairly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 justamente

🇮🇳 निष्पक्ष रूप से

🇩🇪 fairerweise

🇮🇩 adil

🇺🇦 справедливо

🇵🇱 uczciwie

🇯🇵 公平に

🇫🇷 équitablement

🇪🇸 justamente

🇹🇷 adilce

🇰🇷 공정하게

🇸🇦 بعدل

🇨🇿 spravedlivě

🇸🇰 spravodlivo

🇨🇳 公平地

🇸🇮 pošteno

🇮🇸 sanngjarnt

🇰🇿 әділ

🇬🇪 სამართლიანად

🇦🇿 ədalətli

🇲🇽 justamente

Etymology

The word 'fairly' originated from the Middle English word 'fairli' which means 'in a fair manner'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The word 'fair' itself has Old English and Old High German origins, with meanings related to beauty, justice, and suitability. Over time, 'fairly' has evolved to encompass notions of justice, reasonableness, and moderation.

See also: fair, fairness, fairway, fairy, unfair, unfairly, unfairness.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,721, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.