quality
n. C / Un. how good or bad something is. It can also mean a specific feature or part of someone's character.
n. the standard of something as measured against other things of a similar kind; the degree of excellence of something. Also refers to a distinctive attribute or characteristic possessed by someone or something.
The quality of the food at this restaurant is excellent.
The manufacturer focuses on high quality rather than low prices to attract loyal customers.
While the technical quality of the recording was flawless, the performance lacked the emotional depth required to truly resonate with a modern audience.
From Middle English qualite, from Old French qualité, from Latin quālitās, quālitātem, from quālis (“of what kind”), from Proto-Indo-European *kʷo- (“who, how”). Cicero coined qualitas as a calque to translate the Ancient Greek word ποιότης (poiótēs, “quality”), coined by Plato from ποῖος (poîos, “of what nature, of what kind”).
Uncountable when referring to the general standard of excellence; countable when referring to specific traits or characteristics.
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quality over quantity
An idiom emphasizing the preference for high-quality items or experiences rather than a large number of them. It suggests that focusing on excellence and value is more desirable than simply accumulating more, regardless of its worth. This principle can be applied to various aspects of life, from material possessions to personal relationships and work.
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the quality
The upper class, the high society, the gentry; the people of quality.