Cool MateFairly vs Quite
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Fairly | Quite | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | To a moderate degree; not too much. | To a significant degree or extent; very. |
| CEFR level | B1 | A1 |
| Part of speech | adverb | adverb |
| Usage notes | Use 'fairly' to describe something that is somewhat true or has a moderate level. It is usually appropriate in both spoken and written English but may be less formal in certain contexts. | Use 'quite' to emphasize an adjective or another adverb. It's often more at home in British English; in American English, 'really' can be more common in casual speech. Avoid using it in overly formal contexts. |
Frequently asked questions: Fairly vs Quite
What's the difference between "Fairly" and "Quite"?
"Fairly" means: To a moderate degree; not too much. "Quite" means: To a significant degree or extent; very.
When should I use "Fairly" and "Quite"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Fairly" and "Quite" the same CEFR level?
"Fairly" is at B1, "Quite" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.