feels fair

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feels fair" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a subjective opinion about the fairness of a situation or decision. Example: "After reviewing the proposal, I believe the offer feels fair given the current market conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

So it feels fair to begin with her strong points.

The Guardian

The tracking of the Wii is pretty robust and feels fair.

The Guardian - Tech

But in this case, given the enormity of the nation's health insurance problem, the word feels fair enough.

The New York Times - Health

Most of us make snap moral judgments about what feels fair or not, or what feels good or not.

The New York Times

We've now created a society so in thrall to material success that it feels fair to many that if you've made it you deserve more power, more say.

The Guardian

They're not glamour models, but are deliberately made to look more hideous and it's done incredibly well because it feels fair and balanced".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

It felt fair to break the rules".

The New Yorker

"That doesn't feel fair.

The Guardian

"It doesn't feel fair at all," Ashraf said.

The Guardian

Whoever wins, it is unlikely to feel fair.

The Guardian - Sport

After a pause he replied: "It doesn't feel fair".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to convey a sense of balanced and impartial judgment, "feels fair" is appropriate. Consider using it when evaluating proposals, agreements, or decisions where subjective perception matters.

Common error

While "feels fair" is suitable for expressing personal opinions, avoid overuse in formal or academic writing where objective analysis and evidence-based reasoning are expected. In these situations, consider phrases like "is equitable" or "appears justified."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "feels fair" is that of a subjective assessment. It acts as a predicate adjective phrase, describing a quality or state of something based on personal judgment or perception. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

12%

Huffington Post

12%

Less common in

The New Yorker

4%

TechCrunch

4%

Health Research Policy and Systems

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "feels fair" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey a subjective assessment of fairness. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is acceptable and correct. Predominantly found in News & Media, it serves to express personal opinions on the equity of situations. While versatile, it is best suited for neutral contexts and should be used cautiously in formal or scientific writing, where objective language is preferred. Alternatives like "seems reasonable" or "appears just" may offer a more precise tone in such settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seems reasonable

Focuses on the logical aspect of being acceptable.

appears just

Highlights the moral and ethical dimension.

sounds equitable

Emphasizes impartiality and equal treatment.

is understandable

Stresses the ease with which something can be comprehended and accepted.

registers as balanced

Suggests a sense of equilibrium and proportionality.

resonates as appropriate

Indicates a harmonious fit with expectations or norms.

strikes one as legitimate

Implies conformity with rules or principles.

comes across as acceptable

Focuses on the perception of being tolerable.

presents as justified

Emphasizes the existence of valid reasons or explanations.

has the ring of truth

Highlights authenticity and credibility.

FAQs

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

You can use "feels fair" to express a subjective assessment of fairness. For example, "The proposed agreement "feels fair" to both parties involved."

What are some alternatives to using "feels fair"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "seems reasonable", "appears just", or "sounds equitable".

Is "feels fair" appropriate for formal writing?

While "feels fair" is acceptable, formal writing often requires more objective language. Consider using alternatives that emphasize impartiality and evidence-based reasoning, such as "is equitable" or "appears justified".

What's the difference between "feels fair" and "is fair"?

"Feels fair" expresses a subjective opinion, while "is fair" implies an objective assessment based on established standards or criteria. Using "feels fair" acknowledges that the assessment is based on personal judgment.