a fair thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fair thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is just, equitable, or reasonable in a given context. Example: "In the debate about resource allocation, it's important to consider what would be a fair thing for all parties involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

"That's not a fair thing to say about Patrick.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a fair thing for our government to do.

The New York Times

I don't feel like that's a fair thing to do.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a fair thing to say that they're aware of that.

The New York Times

You know, yeah, that's probably a fair thing for me to say.

The New York Times - Tech

Ownership is a fair thing to take for the income inequality a business promotes with its own compensation and hiring approaches.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Pressed again, he said: "I would like to see a maximum earnings limit, quite honestly, because I think that would be a fairer thing to do.

The Guardian

Grant that our King may make this ancient land A Realm of brothers, working mind and hand To make the Life of Man a fairer thing: God, grant this living glory to the King.

The Guardian - Books

The final poem, A Prayer for the King's Majesty, also focuses on George VI's coronation in May 1937, and sees the poet asking: "Grant that our King may make this ancient land / A Realm of brothers, working mind and hand / To make the Life of Man a fairer thing: / God, grant this living glory to the King".

The Guardian - Books

"I can't put a figure on it," he said of the cap, but it would be "a fairer thing to do".

Vice

Saying that income caps would be "a fairer thing to do" is vague and abstract, a populism that isn't really very popular.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a fair thing", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes fairness in that specific situation. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a fair thing" without considering differing perspectives. What seems fair to one party may not appear so to another. Acknowledge potential biases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fair thing" functions primarily as a subject complement or object complement, providing a description or evaluation of something. This assessment, according to Ludwig AI, indicates the phrase follows standard grammatical rules and is widely acceptable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a fair thing" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something considered just, equitable, or reasonable. According to Ludwig AI, its acceptance is widespread across diverse contexts, as supported by numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. While versatile, it's important to ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes fairness to avoid ambiguity. Remember, perspectives on fairness can differ, so acknowledging potential biases is crucial. Alternatives such as "a just action" or "an equitable matter" may offer more specific connotations depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a just action

Emphasizes the moral and ethical correctness of an action.

an equitable matter

Focuses on impartiality and equal treatment in a situation.

a reasonable measure

Highlights the logical and sensible nature of a decision or action.

a legitimate step

Suggests the action is in accordance with rules, standards, or expectations.

an appropriate course

Indicates a suitable or fitting action in a particular context.

a rightful decision

Underscores the entitlement and justness of a choice.

a balanced approach

Implies objectivity and consideration of all sides.

a principled stance

Highlights the adherence to moral principles in a decision.

an ethical consideration

Focuses on the moral aspects and implications of a situation.

an impartial judgement

Emphasizes lack of bias and fairness in assessing a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a fair thing" in a sentence?

You can use "a fair thing" to describe an action, decision, or situation that is just, equitable, or reasonable. For example, "Providing equal opportunities is "a fair thing" to do".

What are some alternatives to saying "a fair thing"?

Alternatives include "a just action", "an equitable matter", or "a reasonable measure", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a fair thing"?

It is appropriate to use "a fair thing" when you want to emphasize the justness or reasonableness of something, especially in discussions involving ethics, equity, or moral considerations.

What's the difference between "a fair thing" and "a just thing"?

While both phrases relate to morality and ethics, "a fair thing" often implies impartiality and equal treatment, whereas "a just thing" emphasizes righteousness and adherence to a moral code. The choice depends on whether you want to focus on equity or moral correctness.