quite fair

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite fair" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something is reasonably just or equitable, often in discussions about decisions or judgments. Example: "After reviewing both sides of the argument, I believe the proposed solution is quite fair to all parties involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Author doesn't think this attitude quit quite fair.

The New Yorker

It doesn't seem quite fair.

The New York Times

It didn't seem quite fair.

Independent

Actually, "plastic" isn't quite fair.

The New York Times - Tech

Well, perhaps that's not quite fair.

Independent

But that's not quite fair.

The New York Times - Magazine

That's not quite fair on many Republicans.

The Guardian

It was not quite fair, I guess.

The New York Times - Sports

I'm not sure that's quite fair".

The New York Times - Sports

I don't think that's quite fair".

The New York Times

Two days is not quite fair," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "quite fair", ensure the context clearly establishes the basis for your judgment of fairness. Provide specific reasons or evidence to support your assertion.

Common error

Avoid using "quite fair" when your perspective is subjective or lacks concrete support. Instead, acknowledge potential biases or limitations in your assessment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite fair" functions as an adverbial intensifier ("quite") modifying an adjective ("fair"). This combination serves to qualify the degree of fairness being asserted. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples where the phrase is used to express a judgment or assessment of something being reasonably just or equitable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite fair" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express that something is reasonably just or equitable. According to Ludwig, it serves as an adverbial intensifier modifying an adjective, allowing for a nuanced evaluation of fairness. While the phrase is versatile and can be used across different registers, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts. Keep in mind that fairness is subjective, so whenever you use the expression "quite fair", try to support your claims with some reasoning. Alternatives such as "reasonably just", "moderately equitable", and "somewhat unbiased" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonably just

Emphasizes the justification behind the fairness, focusing on the rationality of the decision.

moderately equitable

Highlights the equal distribution or treatment involved, suggesting balance and impartiality.

somewhat unbiased

Focuses on the absence of prejudice or favoritism, implying a neutral perspective.

relatively impartial

Indicates a comparison to other situations where impartiality might be compromised, suggesting a higher degree of neutrality.

comparatively even-handed

Stresses the balanced approach taken, ensuring equal treatment for all parties involved.

fair to some extent

Acknowledges the presence of fairness but suggests it might not be complete or absolute.

passably unbiased

Highlights a subtle form of impartiality. Indicates something is unbiased and is acceptable.

acceptably reasonable

Emphasizes the rationality and justification behind the fairness

kind of fair

Casual alternative to "quite fair", which describes something is partially fair.

somewhat justifiable

Similar to the above, focuses on the presence of justification and the fairness is implied.

FAQs

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

You can use "quite fair" to express that something is reasonably just or equitable. For example, "After considering all the evidence, the judge's decision seemed "quite fair"."

What are some alternatives to saying "quite fair"?

Alternatives include "reasonably just", "moderately equitable", or "somewhat unbiased", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "quite fair" or "perfectly fair"?

"Quite fair" implies a degree of fairness that is less absolute than "perfectly fair". Use "quite fair" when something is reasonably but not entirely fair; use "perfectly fair" when it is entirely just.

What does "quite fair" mean in the context of a negotiation?

In negotiations, "quite fair" often indicates that the proposed terms are reasonably balanced and acceptable to all parties involved, even if they may not be ideal. It suggests a compromise has been reached that is "relatively impartial".