far
adv. · adj.-
1 at a great distance (adv.) A1 Beginnerat, to, or from a great distance in space or time.
to, at, or from a considerable distance in space or time.
ExampleHow far is the nearest train station from here?
ExampleThe explorers travelled far into the uncharted wilderness, eventually losing all contact with the base camp for several weeks.
UsageOften used in questions with 'how' or in negative sentences; in positive statements, 'a long way' is often preferred in speech.
- distantly
- remotely
-
2 by a great amount (adv.) A2 Elementaryvery much; used to emphasize a difference.
by a considerable margin or degree; frequently used as an intensifier for comparative adjectives and adverbs.
ExampleThis new laptop is far better than my old one.
ExampleThe initial estimates for the project were far lower than the actual costs incurred during the construction phase.
UsageTypically precedes a comparative adjective or adverb like 'better', 'faster', or 'more'.
Show 2 more sensesShow fewer
-
3 distant (adj.) A1 Beginnera long way away in space or time.
remote in space, time, or relation.
ExampleHe dreamed of travelling to far countries across the ocean.
ExampleThe lighthouse was visible on the far horizon, blinking rhythmically against the darkening sky.
UsageCommonly used in the phrase 'the far side' or 'the far end'.
-
4 extreme or distant side (adj.) B1 Intermediatethe more distant of two things.
being the more distant or remote of two or more items or sides.
ExampleThe bathroom is at the far end of the hallway on the left.
ExampleThe hikers finally reached the far side of the valley just as the sun began to set behind the peaks.
UsageUsually placed before the noun it modifies.
- 01
a bridge too far
A step or action that is too ambitious; an act of overreaching.
- 02
as far as one knows
To the best of one's knowledge, as far as someone knows or possible information to be gathered about the topic, subject, aspect, or situation.
- 03
far and away
By a large degree or margin; greatly (used before comparative and superlative adjectives).