Middling: meaning, definitions and examples

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middling

[ˈmɪd.lɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

quality

Of average quality; not outstanding or exceptional.

Synonyms

average, mediocre, moderate, ordinary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
middling	This word is often used to describe something that is of medium quality or middle rank. It gives a sense of modesty or averageness in a neutral way. His performance was middling, neither impressive nor disappointing. The restaurant serves middling food; it’s not bad, but it’s not great either.
average	This word is commonly used to describe something that is typical or expected. It is a neutral term often used in statistics or general comparisons. The average temperature this month was 20 degrees Celsius. Her test scores were average compared to her classmates.
mediocre	This word is often used to describe something that is of only moderate quality and can carry a slightly negative connotation, suggesting it is not good enough. The film received mediocre reviews from critics. His performance was mediocre; it lacked the energy and precision needed to stand out.
ordinary	This word is used to describe something that is common, usual, and not special or distinctive. It often has a neutral connotation, suggesting it is what you would typically expect. He led an ordinary life, with no major achievements or failures. The book is just ordinary, nothing really stands out about it.
moderate	This word is generally used to describe something that is within reasonable limits, neither too much nor too little. It often refers to intensity, quantity, or degree. She enjoys moderate exercise, like walking or yoga. The price of the meal was moderate, not too expensive nor cheap.

Examples of usage

The movie received middling reviews from critics.
She was a middling student, neither at the top of her class nor at the bottom.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

quantity

Moderate in size, amount, or degree.

Synonyms

average, fair, medium, moderate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
middling	Typically used to describe something that is neither good nor bad, often used for quality or performance. The movie was middling; it didn't impress me but wasn't terrible either. His performance was just middling, nothing outstanding.
moderate	Usually used to describe something that is within reasonable limits, neither too much nor too little; can also indicate a balanced or restrained approach. He is known for his moderate political views. The climate in this region is moderate all year round.
average	Commonly used in everyday conversation to describe something that is typical or standard, neither exceptional nor poor. Her test scores were average, not the best but also not the worst. The restaurant was average; the food was okay, but nothing special.
medium	Often used in terms of size, quantity, or degree, to indicate a middle position between two extremes. I would like a medium-sized coffee, please. She has a medium build, not too thin and not too heavy.
fair	Used to describe something that is acceptable but not particularly good, often used with a slight positive connotation compared to 'average'. Also used in contexts of fairness or justice. She did a fair job on the report, but it could have been better. The judge's decision was fair and balanced.

Examples of usage

The company reported a middling increase in revenue this quarter.
We had a middling number of attendees at the event.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Old English 'mid' meaning 'middle' combined with '-ling', a suffix indicating something small or diminutive.
It has been used in the English language since the 16th century to describe things that are in the middle range or average.

Pop Culture

In the 20th century, some sports teams were described as middling when they had average performance, impacting fan engagement.
Movies and books often portray 'middling' characters who are relatable because they’re not perfect or extraordinary.

Psychology

Researchers suggest that people generally prefer extremes over middling outcomes; we tend to remember highs and lows more vividly than average experiences.
In personality tests, individuals may underplay their 'middling' traits as they strive to appear more unique or exceptional.

Literature

In modern literature, 'middling' may reflect societal norms, emphasizing the struggle of characters in their 'average' lives against extraordinary expectations.
Many authors craft 'middling' worlds where the mundane is explored, revealing deeper truths about human nature.

Economics

In market research, 'middling' products often target consumers looking for affordability without sacrificing quality.
The 'middling' market segment is crucial for businesses aiming to balance cost and quality to appeal to the average consumer.

Translations

Translations of the word "middling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mediano

🇮🇳 मध्यम

🇩🇪 mittelmäßig

🇮🇩 sedang

🇺🇦 середній

🇵🇱 średni

🇯🇵 中程度の (chūteido no)

🇫🇷 moyen

🇪🇸 medio

🇹🇷 orta

🇰🇷 보통의 (botong-ui)

🇸🇦 متوسط (mutawassiṭ)

🇨🇿 průměrný

🇸🇰 priemerný

🇨🇳 中等的 (zhōngděng de)

🇸🇮 povprečen

🇮🇸 meðal

🇰🇿 орташа

🇬🇪 საშუალო (sashualo)

🇦🇿 orta

🇲🇽 medio

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,509, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
20506 aghast
20507 slaying
20508 interleukin
20509 middling
20510 patronized
20511 digression
20512 ole
...