it would only be fair

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it would only be fair' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to suggest that a particular action or decision has a reasonable justification or is reasonable. For example, "I know you're tired from all that driving, so it would only be fair if you got to choose the restaurant tonight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"It would only be fair, since Michael can't talk about the movie".

Independent

It would only be fair for the country to give her the honour that she deserved".

Independent

It would only be fair since language is indeed the mediator of their entire education.

The New York Times

Simpson and Steele thought that "it would only be fair if the world knew that both candidates were under investigation".

The New Yorker

But if they get a pay rise, it would only be fair for public sector workers to get one too.

The Guardian

It would only be fair to note the football team's achievement in simply lining up at the Olympics.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Marcus Christenson (@m_christenson) Klaas-Jan Huntelaar tells Bild: "Regarding rumours abt Liverpool it'd only be fair to speak to Schalke first" #lfc Contract runs out in 2015 July 3, 2014 Marcus Christenson (@m_christenson) Huntelaar: "I've talked to Schalke about an extension for a while.

The Guardian - Sport

During his visit to Paris, Mr. Hu, the Huawei executive, told a French reporter that such a proposal would only be fair if it applied to all companies, not just Huawei.

The New York Times - Tech

This would only be fair.

The Guardian - Opinion

That would only be fair.

Huffington Post

As Dionne has argued, such an approach would not only be fair and decent; it would demonstrate that progressives "honor two things at least.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it would only be fair", ensure the context clearly establishes what standard of fairness is being invoked. Be specific about who benefits and why.

Common error

Avoid assuming that what seems "fair" to you will automatically seem fair to others. Consider different perspectives and potential biases when using the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it would only be fair" functions as a conditional statement expressing a judgment about what is equitable or reasonable in a given situation. Ludwig shows that it is used to introduce a suggestion or expectation of fairness, often implying that a particular action is justified.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sports

15%

Opinion

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it would only be fair" is a useful expression employed to advocate for equitable or reasonable actions, grounded in widely accepted principles of justice. As Ludwig confirms, the statement is grammatically sound, commonly used and suitable for a variety of contexts, especially news, opinion, and general discussions. To ensure effective communication, specify the invoked fairness standards and consider varying perspectives. While versatile, the phrase is best applied when supporting perspectives with sound, logical rationales.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's the fair thing to do

A more direct and simple expression of fairness.

it's only right

Simplifies the phrase to emphasize moral correctness.

it is just and reasonable

Uses both 'just' and 'reasonable' for emphasis.

it's merely equitable

Uses a more formal term for fairness.

equity dictates that

Emphasizes that equity requires a certain action.

it stands to reason

Emphasizes logical conclusion; less focused on explicit fairness.

it's simply the right thing to do

Highlights moral correctness rather than just fairness.

it's the only reasonable course of action

Focuses on the rationality and practicality of the action.

justice demands it

Highlights the necessity of the action from a justice perspective.

it's a matter of principle

Shifts the focus to adhering to a moral principle.

FAQs

How can I use "it would only be fair" in a sentence?

Use "it would only be fair" to suggest a course of action is reasonable or justified given the circumstances. For example, "Since you did all the work, "it would only be fair" if you got the first slice of cake."

What's a simpler way to say "it would only be fair"?

You can use phrases like "it's only right" or "that's the fair thing to do" as simpler alternatives to "it would only be fair".

Is there a more formal way to say "it would only be fair"?

Yes, phrases like "it is just and reasonable" or "equity dictates that" offer a more formal tone than "it would only be fair".

What's the difference between "it would only be fair" and "it's the right thing to do"?

"It would only be fair" emphasizes equity and reasonableness, while "it's the right thing to do" emphasizes moral correctness. While often interchangeable, the latter focuses more on ethical considerations.