What does "fair play" mean?
Two main uses:1. Acknowledging something admirable: In British and Irish English especially, "fair play" is said to acknowledge that someone has done something impressive, difficult, or unexpectedly decent."She ran the marathon with a broken toe - fair play to her.""He admitted he was wrong - fai...
Two main uses
1. Acknowledging something admirable
In British and Irish English especially, "fair play" is said to acknowledge that someone has done something impressive, difficult, or unexpectedly decent.
"She ran the marathon with a broken toe - fair play to her."
"He admitted he was wrong - fair play."
This use is warm and genuine. It's shorthand for "I respect that."
2. The principle of playing fairly
The general concept of playing by the rules, being honest in competition. "Fair play in sport" is about abiding by the rules and the spirit of the game.
Irish English
"Fair play" is especially common in Irish English for use 1. You'll hear it constantly in Ireland as a way of expressing admiration or respect.
American equivalent
There's no direct equivalent for use 1. Americans might say "good for her" or "respect."
Register
Casual in use 1. Neutral/formal in use 2.
What does "fair play" mean?
Two main uses:1. Acknowledging something admirable: In British and Irish English especially, "fair play" is said to acknowledge that someone has done something impressive, difficult, or unexpectedly decent."She ran the marathon with a broken toe - fair play to her.""He admitted he was wrong - fai...
Is "fair play" formal or informal?
Casual in use 1. Neutral/formal in use 2.
Small talk and everyday replies have their own hidden rules.
LLH Tutor explains the social English that native speakers use without thinking twice.
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