quite far behind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite far behind" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant distance or lag in progress compared to something or someone else. Example: "In the race, she was quite far behind the leading runners, struggling to keep up with their pace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

We have come from quite far behind.

Independent

I was playing quite far behind the baseline.

The Guardian - Sport

At the third "Stoi!" — the bridge was quite far behind us — my pfc.

The New Yorker

Possibly, but Mr. Romney is quite far behind in the polls there.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, Sunderland lags quite far behind with 0.4 patents per 100,000 people.

The Guardian

Minecraft, for example, has a mobile version which is quite far behind on updates compared to the desktop version.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Not far behind is a login that sounds quite a lot like a cry for help: "letmein".

The Guardian - Tech

I was quite far ahead, wasn't I?' I always think I can hear other people right behind me.

The Guardian - Sport

Can Gagosian be far behind?

The New Yorker

Can "toots" be far behind?

The New Yorker

Are the Olympics far behind?

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Replace "quite far behind" with stronger synonyms such as "significantly trailing" or "substantially behind" to add emphasis when needed. The best option depends on the tone of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "quite far behind" repeatedly in close proximity, as the overuse of "quite" can weaken the impact of your writing. Vary your language by using alternative phrases like "significantly trailing" or "well behind" for better flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite far behind" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It describes the degree to which something is lagging or trailing, indicating a significant difference in position, progress, or achievement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Sport

24%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite far behind" is a versatile phrase used to describe a significant отставание or lagging in various contexts, as supported by Ludwig AI. While grammatically correct and commonly used, it's beneficial to consider stronger synonyms like "significantly trailing" for added emphasis or vary your language for better flow. Predominantly found in news and sports reporting, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. Using a variety of vocabulary is always preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

well behind

A more general way of expressing being at a lower position or stage.

significantly trailing

This alternative emphasizes the act of lagging in a race or competition, whether literal or figurative.

lagging significantly

Emphasizes the action of falling behind in a notable way.

noticeably behind

Emphasizes that the difference is easy to see or recognize.

markedly behind

Indicates a distinct and clear отставание.

considerably lagging

This phrase highlights a noticeable discrepancy in progress or achievement.

substantially behind

Focuses on the large extent of the gap or deficit.

trailing by a large margin

Highlights the extent of the difference in a competitive situation.

considerably in arrears

Specifically indicates being behind on payments or obligations.

appreciably slower

Focuses on the difference in speed or progress.

FAQs

What does "quite far behind" mean?

The phrase "quite far behind" means that something or someone is significantly lagging or trailing in comparison to something or someone else. It indicates a considerable отставание in progress, position, or achievement.

When is it appropriate to use "quite far behind"?

It's appropriate to use "quite far behind" when you want to emphasize that something is considerably отставание but without necessarily exaggerating the отставание. It is useful when you want to state something lags noticeably.

What are some alternatives to "quite far behind"?

Some alternatives include "significantly trailing", "well behind", "substantially behind", or "considerably lagging". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "quite far behind" formal or informal?

The phrase "quite far behind" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for more formal writing, you might consider using alternatives like "significantly trailing" to convey a more precise or professional tone.