English Reference
adverb · adjective

far

adv. · adj.
US /ˈfɑɹ/ UK /fˈɑː/ far

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    adv.at, to, or from a great distance in space or time.

    adv.to, at, or from a considerable distance in space or time.

    Simple

    How far is the nearest train station from here?

    In context

    The explorers travelled far into the uncharted wilderness, eventually losing all contact with the base camp for several weeks.

    Usage

    Often used in questions with 'how' or in negative sentences; in positive statements, 'a long way' is often preferred in speech.

    distantlyremotely
  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    adv.very much; used to emphasize a difference.

    adv.by a considerable margin or degree; frequently used as an intensifier for comparative adjectives and adverbs.

    Simple

    This new laptop is far better than my old one.

    In context

    The initial estimates for the project were far lower than the actual costs incurred during the construction phase.

    Usage

    Typically precedes a comparative adjective or adverb like 'better', 'faster', or 'more'.

  3. 03 A1 Beginner

    adj.a long way away in space or time.

    adj.remote in space, time, or relation.

    Simple

    He dreamed of travelling to far countries across the ocean.

    In context

    The lighthouse was visible on the far horizon, blinking rhythmically against the darkening sky.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the phrase 'the far side' or 'the far end'.

  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    adj.the more distant of two things.

    adj.being the more distant or remote of two or more items or sides.

    Simple

    The bathroom is at the far end of the hallway on the left.

    In context

    The hikers finally reached the far side of the valley just as the sun began to set behind the peaks.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it modifies.

Usage far away · far less · far too

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Very common
Updated