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Definition of fairnext
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as in pale
of light complexion fair people tend to sunburn easily

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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fair

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noun

as in exhibit
a public showing of objects of interest a dazzling array of sleek cabin cruisers at the annual boat fair

Synonyms & Similar Words

fair

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adverb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective fair contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of fair are dispassionate, equitable, impartial, just, objective, and unbiased. While all these words mean "free from favor toward either or any side," fair implies a proper balance of conflicting interests.

a fair decision

When is dispassionate a more appropriate choice than fair?

The words dispassionate and fair can be used in similar contexts, but dispassionate suggests freedom from the influence of strong feeling and often implies cool or even cold judgment.

a dispassionate summation of the facts

How are the words equitable and just related as synonyms of fair?

Equitable implies a less rigorous standard than just and usually suggests equal treatment of all concerned.

the equitable distribution of the property

Where would impartial be a reasonable alternative to fair?

The meanings of impartial and fair largely overlap; however, impartial stresses an absence of favor or prejudice.

an impartial third party

When would just be a good substitute for fair?

The words just and fair are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, just implies an exact following of a standard of what is right and proper.

a just settlement of territorial claims

In what contexts can objective take the place of fair?

While in some cases nearly identical to fair, objective stresses a tendency to view events or persons as apart from oneself and one's own interest or feelings.

I can't be objective about my own child

When can unbiased be used instead of fair?

In some situations, the words unbiased and fair are roughly equivalent. However, unbiased implies even more strongly an absence of all prejudice.

your unbiased opinion

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of fair
Adjective
These products confuse populist capitalism, the urge to beat the elite at their own game, with Repplier’s people’s capitalism, where access is broad, affordable, and fair. Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 28 May 2026 Once, an Iowa State Cyclones fan account posted a picture of Crooks at the state fair with a steer, and the onslaught of hateful comments that followed was too much; the picture disappeared. Lyz Lenz, Rolling Stone, 28 May 2026
Noun
The fair is being organized by Freedom 250, a public-private group working with the White House to organize the celebration of America's 250 birthday. Chandelis Duster, NPR, 31 May 2026 The fair also features Julie Nuñez of Yulita Studio, with washi tape, stickers and other cute items; and Arturo Montes, who will be serving from a matcha cart. Anne Gelhaus, Mercury News, 31 May 2026
Adverb
Judge pummeled a 93 mph fastball on the inner part of the zone 404 feet just fair of the left-field foul pole for a two-run homer. Shayna Rubin, San Francisco Chronicle, 27 Mar. 2026 In a turnabout-is-fair-play moment, a Sparty fan showed during a break of the Wolverines’ game was treated with equal disdain. Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 20 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fair
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fair
Adjective
  • Maybe not stuck in an urban jam, dodging potholes or crawling amid draconian speed limits – but out there on the open road, taking sunny corners in a nice car?
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 29 May 2026
  • Those marching orders left opponents and free speech advocates in disbelief, wondering how park employees were supposed to put a sunny spin on monuments acknowledging slavery, Jim Crow laws and the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II.
    Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2026
Adjective
  • Undoubtedly, these reconsiderations have been a largely positive exercise, foregrounding not only more equitable but more accurate and more engaging histories, and opening gallery and museum doors to previously excluded artists (even if many have suffered with the ups and downs of speculation).
    Katy Siegel, Artforum, 2 June 2026
  • Foster Psychological Safety First Leaders build trust by creating fearless cultures, where psychological safety, equitable opportunity and open dialogue are non-negotiable.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026
Adjective
  • It is embedded within the city’s historic Jackson Park, a decision that was met with legal battles as an environmental group sued the City of Chicago for allowing a private project to be built on public land.
    Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 4 June 2026
  • Because the city did not lock in strict legal rules for spending the new funds, even though the hotel tax has historically helped fund local arts programs, leaders could technically divert the cash to other priorities later.
    Ryan Macasero, Mercury News, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • The national team player posted images on Instagram showcasing the distinctive headphones, featuring large, flat earcups, unique tubular telescoping arms, and an all-new pale pink finish.
    David Phelan, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026
  • Once mounted, the voluptuous nude body stands tall like a mountain against the pale wash of Sotheby’s London gallery.
    Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 30 May 2026
Adjective
  • Although the data is still being analysed, Zhang Tongjie believes SETI remains one of the most promising approaches for detecting extraterrestrial life.
    Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 31 May 2026
  • Whitmer was once considered among the Democratic Party’s most promising national figures.
    Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 31 May 2026
Adjective
  • The world’s most famous blonde bombshell, perched on playground equipment, absorbed in a book.
    Sheena McKenzie, CNN Money, 3 June 2026
  • Lots of blond wood and large flagstones.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • Give it a really decent mix and that's fine.
    Emily Elias, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 June 2026
  • Teams are obviously attracted to the combination of size, body, work ethic, leadership, poise, shot and decent skill.
    Scott Wheeler, New York Times, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • There are beautiful walks and cycle rides and pretty Champenois villages in every direction, including Hautvillers, with the little church where Dom Pérignon is buried.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 June 2026
  • The playoff leader in goals, Howden had a beautiful tip on a shot by Theodore for his 11th of the playoffs and perhaps his most important in Game 1.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 3 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fair.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fair. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.

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