What does "fairly" mean?

1. (moderately) to a certain degree, but not extremely; quite. 2. (justly) in a way that is honest, equal, and follows the rules. 3. (completely) used to emphasize that something is completely true or has really happened.

How do you use "fairly"?

Usually placed before the adjective or adverb it modifies. Often follows the verb it modifies.

Is it correct to say "The test was fairly difficult, so I failed it."?

No — say "The test was quite difficult, so I failed it.". In many contexts, 'fairly' suggests a positive or manageable level. If something is too difficult to handle, 'quite' or 'very' is more natural.

fairly

adv.

US //ˈfɛɹɫi// UK //fˈeəli// fair·ly

1 moderately (adv.)
B1 Intermediate

to a certain degree, but not extremely; quite.

to a moderate degree or extent. As a submodifier, it typically precedes adjectives or other adverbs.

Example

The hotel was fairly cheap, but it was clean and close to the station.

Example

The results of the preliminary study were fairly consistent, though a larger sample size is required to confirm the initial findings.

Usage

Usually placed before the adjective or adverb it modifies.
- extremely
- very
Pitfall

The test was fairly difficult, so I failed it.

The test was quite difficult, so I failed it.

In many contexts, 'fairly' suggests a positive or manageable level. If something is too difficult to handle, 'quite' or 'very' is more natural.
2 justly (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

in a way that is honest, equal, and follows the rules.

in a manner that is just, equitable, and free from bias or favouritism.

Example

The manager promised to treat all the employees fairly during the review.

Example

The judge was praised for ensuring that the legal proceedings were conducted fairly and that all evidence was weighed without prejudice.

Usage

Often follows the verb it modifies.
- justly
- equitably
- impartially
- unfairly
- unjustly

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3 completely (adv.)
C1 Advanced British English Informal

used to emphasize that something is completely true or has really happened.

used as an intensifier to emphasize the truth or completeness of a statement.

Example

By the end of the long hike, the children were fairly exhausted.

Example

The audience was fairly mesmerized by the soloist's performance, remaining in total silence until the final note faded.

Teacher's tip

This emphatic use is more common in British English and can sometimes be confused with the 'moderately' sense by learners.

Origin

From Middle English fayrly, fayrely, vayrliche, equivalent to fair + -ly.