fair wind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fair wind" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in nautical contexts to wish someone a favorable wind for sailing or metaphorically to express good fortune or success in a venture. Example: "As you embark on your new journey, I wish you a fair wind and smooth sailing ahead."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There may be a fair wind blowing.

The Guardian

With a fair wind, he could reach 500.

The Guardian - Sport

"With a fair wind she could be smelled a mile".

The New York Times

Already endowed with oil and gas, Texas is blessed with a fair wind as well.

The Economist

With a fair wind and a stout pair of shoes, it's all readily walkable.

Independent

Nor will all future mergers begin with such a fair wind.

The Economist

Hugging the coast, the Waring sailed north "with a fair wind".

The New York Times

With a fair wind, this approach may influence the whole of British politics for the better.

The Guardian - Opinion

If there's a fair wind and we achieve it quickly, we'll take that.

The Guardian - Sport

Day 10: 32 Miles A fair wind and following sea sweep us to Smith Point.

The New York Times

He said: "We seem to have a fair wind behind us now.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using "fair wind". While widely understood, it retains a slightly formal or literary tone, and might not suit all contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "fair wind" to describe the initiation of an event; it is more appropriately used to describe conditions that aid ongoing progress, not initial creation or action. Think of it as something that helps something already going on, rather than to start it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fair wind" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as an adverbial modifier to describe circumstances that favor progress or success. As Ludwig AI notes, it is generally grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "fair wind" is a versatile expression primarily used to denote favorable conditions aiding progress. Derived from nautical origins, it's now widely adopted in metaphorical contexts across various domains, as Ludwig AI confirms. While grammatically sound and frequently encountered, it's crucial to recognize its function as a descriptor of ongoing momentum rather than the instigator of an event. Alternative phrases like "smooth sailing" or "tailwind" offer similar connotations, yet "fair wind" maintains a slightly formal register, making it apt for diverse writing styles, from news articles to academic papers. With its rich history and enduring relevance, "fair wind" remains a valuable asset in the English language, embodying optimism and the promise of positive outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tailwind

Employs a wind-related analogy, indicating support and acceleration towards a goal.

smooth sailing

Maintains the nautical metaphor, indicating an easy and trouble-free journey or endeavor.

favorable tide

Uses a different water-related metaphor to imply supportive momentum or advancement.

favorable conditions

Replaces the nautical term with a more general expression for advantageous circumstances.

good fortune

A more direct and general expression of luck or favorable outcome.

positive circumstances

Emphasizes the optimistic aspect, focusing on beneficial situations.

auspicious start

Focuses on a promising beginning that bodes well for the future.

advantageous situation

Describes a setting or context that offers opportunities and benefits.

fortunate turn

Highlights a change in circumstances that leads to a positive outcome.

propitious moment

Suggests that the timing is right for success or advancement.

FAQs

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

You can use "fair wind" to describe a favorable situation or circumstance that aids progress, as in "With a "fair wind", the project should be completed on time."

What's a good alternative to "fair wind"?

Alternatives to "fair wind" include "smooth sailing", "favorable conditions", or "tailwind", depending on the specific context.

Is "fair wind" only used in nautical contexts?

While "fair wind" originates from nautical terminology, it's now commonly used metaphorically to describe any set of circumstances that positively influence progress or success.

Can "fair wind" be used to describe a person's character?

No, "fair wind" is typically used to describe situations or conditions, not personal attributes. It's more appropriate to describe someone as having qualities like 'determination' or 'resilience' rather than associating them directly with "fair wind".