Definition of Fair (meaning 1 of 3 — adjective)
Quick Meaning of Fair
Treating everyone the same way; not favoring one person over another.
Detailed Definition of Fair
Just, impartial, and reasonable; treating all people equally without bias.
How to Pronounce Fair
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: Rhymes with 'care' and 'share'. The vowel is like 'e' in 'bet' but longer.
Other Meanings of Fair
“Fair” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 Fair as a noun
An outdoor event with rides, games, food, and entertainment that people visit for fun.
county fair
#3 Fair as an adjective
Having light skin color or blonde/light-colored hair.
fair skin
Origin and Etymology of Fair
From Old English 'fæger' meaning beautiful or pleasing.
How to Use Fair in a Sentence
Each example shows “fair” in the meaning “Treating everyone the same way; not favoring one…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The teacher was fair to all her students in grading.”
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“A fair price means both the buyer and seller agree it is reasonable.”
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“It is not fair to blame her for something she did not do.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Fair
Common Synonyms for Fair
Smart Synonyms for Fair — When to Use Each
- just
- when emphasizing moral correctness and proper treatment
- impartial
- when stressing lack of favoritism in judgment or
Antonyms of Fair
Common Collocations with Fair
These phrases pair with “fair” in everyday English:
- fair chance
- fair deal
- fair price
- fair treatment
- fair trial
Common Mistakes When Using Fair
Even fluent speakers slip up with “fair”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: It is not fair because she is smarter.
- ✓ Correct: It is not fair to judge her only on intelligence.
- Why: The first sentence sounds incomplete. Add 'to judge' or another action to explain what is unfair.
- ✗ Wrong: The price is fair for buy.
- ✓ Correct: The price is fair for buying. / It is fair to buy.
- Why: After 'for' use a gerund (buying), not a base verb (buy).
Words Confused With Fair
- Fair vs Fair (appearance): Different meaning: light skin or hair color (homonym)
Other Forms of Fair
Frequently Asked Questions About Fair
What is the meaning of "Fair"?
Treating everyone the same way; not favoring one person over another.
How do you pronounce "Fair"?
The IPA is /fer/. Rhymes with 'care' and 'share'. The vowel is like 'e' in 'bet' but longer.
What part of speech is "Fair"?
"Fair" is an adjective at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Fair"?
Common synonyms include just, impartial, equitable.
How do you use "Fair" in a sentence?
For example: "The teacher was fair to all her students in grading."