English Reference
adjective · noun

finer

adj. · n.
US /ˈfaɪnɝ/ UK /fˈaɪnɐ/ fin·er

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    adj.better in quality or more impressive than something else.

    adj.denoting a superior grade of quality, craftsmanship, or aesthetic value compared to another.

    Simple

    This restaurant uses finer ingredients than the one down the street.

    In context

    The collector was willing to pay a premium for the finer porcelain, noting the subtle differences in glaze that distinguished it from the mass-produced sets.

    superiorbetterhigher quality
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.made of smaller parts or having more detail.

    adj.consisting of smaller particles or more intricate details; having a thinner or more delicate texture.

    Simple

    You need a finer brush to paint the small details on the model.

    In context

    The desert sand was much finer than the grit found on the coast, blowing easily into the smallest crevices of the machinery.

    thinnermore delicatemore detailed
    coarserthicker
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Academic

    adj.showing very small and important differences.

    adj.referring to subtle distinctions or more precise measurements.

    Simple

    We need to look at the finer details of the contract before we sign it.

    In context

    A finer analysis of the data revealed several minor trends that the initial report had completely overlooked.

    subtlermore precise
    broadercruder
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical Technical

    n.a person or machine that removes dirt or unwanted parts from something.

    n.an agent, whether human or mechanical, that refines or purifies a substance, such as metal or oil.

    Simple

    The gold finer worked all day to remove the impurities from the metal.

    In context

    In the traditional smelting process, the finer played a crucial role in ensuring the purity of the final silver bars.

    refinerpurifier
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated