/ ˈfeəli; NAmE ˈferli/ adverb
1.
(before adjectives and adverbs) to some extent but not very :
a fairly easy book
a fairly typical reaction
I know him fairly well, but I wouldn't say we were really close friends.
I go jogging fairly regularly.
We'll have to leave fairly soon (= before very long) .
I'm fairly certain I can do the job.
The report was fairly incomprehensible.
I think you'll find it fairly difficult (= you do not want to say that it is very difficult) .
➡ note at quite
2.
in a fair and reasonable way; honestly :
He has always treated me very fairly.
Her attitude could fairly be described as hostile.
3.
( old-fashioned ) used to emphasize sth that you are saying :
The time fairly raced by.
•
IDIOMS
- fairly and squarely