Learn English – Why the word “fine” is often used as “just satisfying” instead of “very high quality”

adjectivesdegree-of-comparison

The definition still says,

of high quality.

"this was a fine piece of filmmaking" · "fine wines"

But too many times, we see people using the word to describe a so-so state, like "I'm doing just fine in the exam."

I heard people say, "that restaurant is fine." Does it mean "just okay", "mediocre", "at least not bad", or "top-notched" like "fine dining"?

Best Answer

I heard people say, "that restaurant is fine." Does it mean "just okay", "mediocre", "at least not bad", or "top-notched" like "fine dining”?

There’s no way to tell for sure, although intonation will often provide some strong clues. For example, if I pointed out the car window and told you, “That restaurant is fine,” I probably wouldn’t say it in the same way if I meant, “top-notch, fine dining,” as I would if I meant, “sufficient or mediocre.” The former might be said more like an enthusiastic exclamation, while the latter might be said with a shrug or a resigned sigh.

Surrounding context also can reveal the intended meaning. As we walked down the street together, I can’t imagine saying, “That restaurant is fine,” without any additional information. For example, I might say:

  • That restaurant is fine – I had dinner there a couple years ago. Best steak I ever had in my life!

Or, if you and I were looking for some place to eat, I might say:

  • That restaurant is fine – I was hoping to find somewhere nicer, but this will do. I’m getting pretty hungry anyway.
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