fairly extensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fairly extensive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is considerable in scope or range, but not overwhelmingly so. Example: "The research provided fairly extensive insights into the effects of climate change on local ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That neighborhood, which also hugs the water, has undergone fairly extensive development since the Hudson Yards rezoning and the extension of the No. 7 subway line.

The New York Times

"Each object has a fairly extensive Newport story".

The New York Times - Arts

In Italy there is a fairly extensive industry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That is why, after fairly extensive research, I bought a 2000 Dodge Neon.

The New York Times

This, I have learned from a fairly extensive career as a burglar.

The New Yorker

The confiscated porn, a Reuters report said, was "modern, electronically recorded video" and "fairly extensive".

The New Yorker

Connecting lines were constructed in subsequent years, and Serbia now has a fairly extensive rail network.

Britannica

Public open space is fairly extensive, covering about one-seventh of the borough.

Britannica

The second component would be we also provide fairly extensive student services now.

MIT Technology Review

The highway network is fairly extensive, but roads are generally of poor quality.

Britannica

The city has a fairly extensive bus network, and taxis and rickshaws are easily accessible.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fairly extensive" to describe something that is considerable but not overwhelmingly large or comprehensive. It suggests a balance between being significant and not being excessive.

Common error

Avoid using "fairly extensive" when describing something that is actually minimal or negligible. This phrase implies a notable degree, so ensure the context aligns with that implication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fairly extensive" functions as an adjectival modifier, typically preceding a noun to describe its scope, range, or degree. It indicates that something is considerable but not overwhelmingly large. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fairly extensive" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjectival modifier that denotes a considerable but not overwhelming degree or scope. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in various contexts. As evidenced by numerous examples from diverse sources like The New York Times, Britannica, and Science Magazine, it is frequently used in news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. When writing, use "fairly extensive" to accurately represent something of notable size or breadth, but avoid using it to describe something minimal. Alternatives like "quite comprehensive", "reasonably broad", or "moderately large" can be considered for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fairly broad

Similar but emphasizes that the extent covers a wide scope.

moderately extensive

Highlights extent but at an average level

quite comprehensive

Emphasizes completeness and thoroughness more than just extent.

reasonably broad

Focuses on the range or scope being adequate or acceptable.

quite large

Similar but refers more directly to the size of something, as opposed to the degree.

reasonably comprehensive

Emphasizes a scope or breadth that is adequate or fair, implying satisfactory coverage.

moderately large

Highlights the size or amount as being average to slightly above average.

somewhat substantial

Indicates a noticeable amount or degree, but not exceptionally so.

significantly large

Slightly emphasizes greater importance with larger extent.

relatively wide

Emphasizes a certain degree of breadth in scope.

FAQs

How can I use "fairly extensive" in a sentence?

You can use "fairly extensive" to describe something that is considerable in scope or range, but not overwhelmingly so. For example: "The research provided "fairly extensive" insights into the effects of climate change".

What phrases are similar to "fairly extensive"?

Alternatives to "fairly extensive" include "quite comprehensive", "reasonably broad", or "moderately large" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "fairly extensive" in formal writing?

Yes, "fairly extensive" is suitable for formal writing. It is a neutral phrase that is commonly used across various reputable sources, making it a reliable choice for expressing a considerable, but not extreme, extent.

When should I not use "fairly extensive"?

Avoid using "fairly extensive" when describing something minimal or negligible. Use it when there is a significant or notable extent to something, but you don't want to overstate its size or scope.