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 — 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.

Tags: British English, Irish English, admiration, respect, sport