Say we have an online discussion where I oppose an idea. After reading additional explanation, I realise that both sides have some merit. So while I do not expicitly agree, I want to let the other one know that he has a valid point, and I want to politely withdraw my opposition.
I´d use "fair enough" to express that specific attitude. But when translating it into german, I find additional meanings like "I forgive you" or "whatever, let´s just end this stupid discussion".
Are those so widely adopted usages that fair enough has a negative/offensive meaning?
Best Answer
"Fair enough" is an even-handed acknowledgment that the person on the other side of an argument has made a valid point. It is a concession of sorts, and sometimes may mean that the person saying it wants to drop the discussion, but that is by no means a requirement.
Here "fair enough" means Speaker 2 is merely conceding that what Speaker 1 is saying may be true. It would not express impatience or a desire to discontinue discussion unless Speaker 2 used additional dialogue to make those things clear.
Note: The expression itself is not at all negative and certainly not offensive. In fact, it is often used precisely to avoid giving offense.