Quite Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
quite
[kwaษชt ]
Definitions
in a degree or extent
To the utmost or most absolute extent or degree; absolutely; completely. To a certain or fairly significant extent or degree; fairly. To a fair degree; moderately.
Synonyms
absolutely, completely, fairly, moderately.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quite |
used to indicate a high degree, often combined with positive or impressive descriptions
|
| completely |
used to indicate something is done in full or entirety, often with tasks or emotional states
|
| absolutely |
used to express something to the fullest extent, often combined with strong positive or negative statements
|
| fairly |
used to indicate a moderate or slight degree, often combined with neutral or mild positive descriptions
|
| moderately |
used to describe something that is average or at a middle level, usually in formal or neutral situations
|
Examples of usage
- I'm quite tired after the long journey.
- The weather is quite nice today.
- She was quite upset about the news.
- The movie was quite entertaining.
- The job was quite challenging but rewarding.
fairly or moderately
To the utmost or most absolute extent or degree; absolutely; completely. Fairly or moderately.
Synonyms
fairly, moderately, reasonably, relatively.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quite |
Used when emphasizing a considerable degree or extent; can indicate a stronger feeling than 'fairly' or 'reasonably'.
|
| fairly |
Indicates a more modest or moderate level, usually suggesting something is more than 'slightly' but less than 'very'.
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| moderately |
Used to describe something that is within a middle range, not extreme in any way.
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| reasonably |
Refers to something that can be done or achieved without too much difficulty; often implies practicality and fairness.
|
| relatively |
Used when comparing something to another thing and indicates that the level or degree is somewhat significant but only in comparison.
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Examples of usage
- She's quite tall for her age.
- The exam was quite difficult but manageable.
- He's quite a good cook.
- The dress is quite expensive but worth it.
- The book was quite interesting.
used to express surprise or disbelief
Used to express mild surprise or disbelief. To a noticeable or significant extent.
Synonyms
amazingly, astonishingly, remarkably, surprisingly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quite |
Used to emphasize the degree or extent of something, often in a more neutral or understated way. It can also mean 'fairly' or 'to some extent'.
|
| surprisingly |
Used to indicate that something is unexpected or surprising. It often implies that the speaker did not anticipate the situation.
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| remarkably |
Used when something is extraordinary or worthy of attention. It often points out something impressive or unusual.
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| astonishingly |
Used to describe something that is so surprising that it seems hard to believe. Often implies an element of disbelief.
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| amazingly |
Used to describe something that is so remarkable that it evokes a feeling of great surprise or wonder.
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Examples of usage
- That's quite a view!
- You're quite the artist!
- It's quite a story!
- She's quite the character!
- He's quite a musician!
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Linguistics
- In British English, 'quite' can mean 'very', while in American English, it often means 'rather' or 'somewhat'.
- 'Quite' is often used to soften statements, making them seem more polite or less forceful in conversation.
- It functions differently in various dialects, showcasing the richness and diversity of English language use.
Cultural Usage
- In British culture, saying something is 'quite good' often implies itโs better than average, yet not excellent.
- The phrase 'quite the adventure' is common in literature, emphasizing a journey that is interesting but not necessarily full of extreme events.
- In the context of social interactions, 'quite' is frequently used to convey agreement without strong enthusiasm.
Psychology
- 'Quite' reflects cognitive responses; people may resort to it to express uncertainty or to gauge reactions before committing to a stronger opinion.
- The use of 'quite' can impact perception; it softens criticism and makes advice sound more appealing or agreeable.
- Filler phrases like 'quite interesting' can help ease into difficult conversations, showcasing a blend of both politeness and assertiveness.
Literature
- Writers often use 'quite' to create layers of meaning; it can suggest contradiction, as in 'it's quite the opposite'.
- Classic literature often highlights the ambiguity of 'quite', forcing readers to examine context to determine its intensity.
- Poets utilize 'quite' for rhythm and emphasis, often placing it in positions that guide the emotional response of the reader.
Origin of 'quite'
Main points about word origin
- 'Quite' comes from the Old English 'cwita', meaning 'completely' or 'entirely'.
- In the early 19th century, 'quite' evolved to convey a more moderate degree rather than totality.
- The word has roots in the Latin 'quietus', which means resting or at peace, relating to its soft usage in conversation.
The word 'quite' originated in Middle English from the Old French word 'quitte', meaning 'free, clear, released'. Over time, its meaning evolved to refer to a degree or extent. In modern usage, 'quite' is commonly used to emphasize a certain quality or characteristic of something. Its versatility in expressing different levels of intensity has made it a popular adverb and adjective in the English language.