fairly smooth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fairly smooth" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation or process that is generally free of significant problems or difficulties. For example: "The transition to a new job was fairly smooth, although there were some unexpected challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Process until the mixture forms a fairly smooth paste.

The New York Times - Magazine

Blend the tomatoes, chillies and garlic together until fairly smooth.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Repeat a few times until it's fairly smooth.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Blend the gooseberries until they are fairly smooth.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You won't get any work done on Fairly Smooth Flight!!

The New Yorker

Since then the ride has been fairly smooth.

The Economist

Fairly Smooth Flight In this virtual-reality simulation, buckle your seat belt for a fairly smooth flight from Chicago to Dallas.

The New Yorker

SAOTrace simulations produce a fairly smooth powerlaw similar to the observations.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Blend the mixture, gradually adding the remaining olive oil, until fairly smooth.

The Guardian

With the motor running, drizzle in the oil and process to form a fairly smooth pesto.

The Washington Post

In general, government officials and business executives predict a fairly smooth changeover.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or transition, use "fairly smooth" to indicate that there were no major obstacles or difficulties.

Common error

Avoid using "fairly smooth" when there were significant challenges or disruptions; opt for phrases like "relatively challenging" or "somewhat difficult" to more accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fairly smooth" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to describe its quality or state. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to indicate a process or surface that is generally free from major problems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

20%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fairly smooth" is a commonly used and grammatically correct adjectival phrase that indicates a process, surface, or experience is generally free from major issues, as Ludwig AI confirms. Its communicative purpose is to convey ease and the lack of significant obstacles. While applicable across various registers, it's most frequently observed in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the situation, avoiding overstatements if significant challenges were present. Consider "somewhat smooth" or "reasonably smooth" as contextually appropriate alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pretty smooth

A more informal way of saying "fairly smooth".

somewhat smooth

Indicates a slightly lesser degree of smoothness.

reasonably smooth

Expresses a similar degree of smoothness but with a slightly more formal tone.

sufficiently smooth

Indicates that the level of smoothness is adequate for a specific purpose.

equally smooth

Implies a comparison in smoothness between two or more things.

very smooth

A stronger affirmation of smoothness compared to "fairly smooth".

extremely smooth

Indicates a higher degree of smoothness.

fairly good

Emphasizes a positive aspect rather than just the absence of problems.

fairly gentle

Suggests a lack of intensity or harshness rather than a smooth process.

fairly mild

Conveys a sense of calmness and not necessarily smoothness.

FAQs

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

You can use "fairly smooth" to describe a process, surface, or experience that is generally without significant issues. For instance, "The transition to the new system was "fairly smooth", with only a few minor hiccups".

What are some alternatives to "fairly smooth"?

Alternatives include "somewhat smooth", "reasonably smooth", or "pretty smooth" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it okay to use "fairly smooth" in formal writing?

Yes, "fairly smooth" is acceptable in formal writing, although more precise language might be preferred depending on the specific context. Consider alternatives if a more impactful or nuanced expression is needed.

What does "fairly smooth" imply about potential problems?

"Fairly smooth" suggests that while there may have been minor issues, they were not significant enough to cause major disruptions or difficulties. It conveys a sense of relative ease and lack of complications.