ordinary fare

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ordinary fare" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is typical or usual. Example: The restaurant's menu offered a variety of dishes, but the chicken parmesan was just ordinary fare.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

What is it about wood smoke that adds to the deliciousness of otherwise ordinary fare?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ah Tao Deanie Ipp) has fixed Roger Leung Andy Lauu) an elaborate meal that seems to be his ordinary fare.

The New York Times

Some offer only overpriced ordinary fare, but others provide increasingly high-quality food from designer brand names like Wolfgang Puck.

The New York Times

I had the same luck with food, finding much ordinary fare but also some that was memorable.

The New York Times - Travel

So I asked, not for anything outside the ordinary fare, but just that they replace things I can't eat with extra helpings of veggies and oatmeal that I can eat.

The New York Times

The KFC fast food chain is on the offensive, attacking what it calls the "bland" and "ordinary" fare sold by hamburger competitors in the opening of a $30 million campaign to stimulate sales of its menu items.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Ordinary fares are high, but for the tourist there is are "Island Hopscotch" tickets that offer options for driving (or cycling) on a range of routes.

Independent

Services to checkpoint terminuses are also more expensive than ordinary fares.

Wikipedia

Michele's is among many Connecticut food establishments that take advantage of the pumpkin grown around the state, transforming it into not only the predictable pies, pastas, soups, breads, cakes and muffins, but also beyond-the-ordinary fare, like pumpkin fries, ice cream, a Pop-Tart imitator and even a martini.

The New York Times

Third, he must make sure that ordinary people fare better economically.

The Economist

The price for a 10-minute ride from the airport, for which the ordinary cab fare is about $5, is listed at 500 British pounds, or about $800.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ordinary fare" when you want to describe food or entertainment that is typical, common, and not particularly special or noteworthy. It is suitable for conveying a sense of normalcy or lack of extravagance.

Common error

Avoid using "ordinary fare" when you intend to praise or highlight the uniqueness of something. The phrase inherently implies a lack of special qualities, so it's unsuitable for describing exceptional or innovative items.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ordinary fare" functions as a noun phrase where "ordinary" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "fare". It describes a type of food or entertainment that is commonplace or typical. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ordinary fare" is used to describe something typical and unexceptional, primarily in the context of food and entertainment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and the examples show that it appears in news articles, academic papers, and general discussions. While the phrase isn't negative, it implies a lack of special qualities. Alternatives include ""common food"" or ""typical cuisine"". Remember to avoid using "ordinary fare" when you want to praise or highlight the uniqueness of something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common food

Replaces "fare" with "food", emphasizing the typical nature of the cuisine.

typical cuisine

Substitutes both words to highlight the standard and unexceptional quality of the food.

standard menu

Focuses on the menu as being unremarkable and commonplace.

commonplace food

Uses "commonplace" to describe the food, stressing its lack of uniqueness.

usual meal

Replaces "fare" with "meal" to convey a routine or expected dining experience.

everyday meals

Highlights the daily and unexceptional nature of the meals.

conventional dishes

Emphasizes the traditional and unremarkable aspect of the dishes.

predictable food

Highlights the lack of surprise or innovation in the food options.

uninspired cuisine

Conveys a negative connotation by suggesting the food lacks creativity or passion.

run-of-the-mill food

Uses a more informal idiom to indicate the food is ordinary and unexceptional.

FAQs

How can I use "ordinary fare" in a sentence?

You can use "ordinary fare" to describe food or entertainment that is typical and unexceptional. For example, "The restaurant offered a varied menu, but most of it was just "ordinary fare"".

What is a synonym for "ordinary fare"?

Synonyms for "ordinary fare" include "common food", "typical cuisine", or "standard menu" depending on the specific context.

Is "ordinary fare" a negative term?

While not strictly negative, "ordinary fare" implies a lack of special or unique qualities. It suggests something is typical or commonplace, rather than exceptional.

What's the difference between "ordinary fare" and "gourmet cuisine"?

"Ordinary fare" describes typical, everyday food, whereas "gourmet cuisine" refers to high-quality, expertly prepared, and often innovative food. They represent opposite ends of the culinary spectrum.