Meaning of Word
Quite is an adverb that indicates a significant degree or extent of something, but it is generally not as strong as “completely” or “entirely.” It can also mean “fairly,” “to some extent,” or “moderately.”
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Adverb: To a considerable degree or extent, but not completely.
- Adverb: Used to emphasize or stress a certain quality or characteristic.
- Adverb: (In British English) Used to mean “fairly” or “somewhat.”
- Adverb: Used to indicate that something is truly or definitely the case.
History and Origin
The word “quite” originates from Middle English, from the Old French word “quit”, meaning “free,” or “clear,” which in turn came from the Latin “quietus”, meaning “at rest” or “free from disturbance.” Over time, the meaning evolved in English to reflect the sense of completeness or adequacy, but without reaching absolute totality.
Detailed Explanation
“Quite” is a versatile adverb used to describe the degree to which something is true or the extent of an action, often expressing moderation. It can be used to soften statements, suggesting that something is not absolute but still notable or significant. In American English, “quite” often means something close to “very” or “completely,” while in British English, it frequently means “fairly” or “somewhat.” Its meaning can vary based on the context in which it is used, as it can convey a sense of certainty or emphasis without implying complete absoluteness.
Example Sentences
- The movie was quite good, but not my favorite.
- She is quite talented at playing the piano.
- It’s quite cold outside today, so be sure to wear a coat.
- The task was quite challenging, but we managed to finish it on time.
- I quite like the new restaurant in town; the food is great.
- He was quite pleased with his performance in the competition.
- The exam was quite difficult, but I think I did okay.
- This book is quite interesting, though it’s a bit lengthy.
- I quite understand your point of view, though I still disagree.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Fairly: To a moderate extent or degree, less strong than “quite” in some contexts.
- Rather: Slightly more than somewhat, often used to express a degree of preference.
- Somewhat: To a certain extent, though less than “quite.”
- Slightly: A small or minimal degree, often used to describe something with a lower intensity.
- Moderately: To a middle degree or extent, neither extreme nor insignificant.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Totally: Used to express complete extent or degree, stronger than “quite.”
- Completely: Means entirely, fully, or absolutely, a more definitive term than “quite.”
- Very: Used to indicate a high degree of something, similar to “quite” but stronger.
- Absolutely: Used to emphasize completeness or certainty, far stronger than “quite.”
- Decidedly: In a manner that is certain or definite, suggesting something is clear and strong.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Quite a bit: Indicates a considerable amount, often used in reference to quantity.
- Quite so: An expression used to agree or affirm something strongly.
- Quite frankly: A phrase used to express honesty or bluntness.
- Quite the opposite: Used to indicate something is completely different from what was expected.
- Quite a challenge: Refers to something that is moderately difficult but not overwhelming.
Antonyms
- Not at all: Used to express the complete absence of something, opposite of “quite.”
- Slightly: Refers to a much smaller degree or extent than “quite.”
- Barely: Implies just enough of something, often to a minimal extent, less than “quite.”
- Hardly: Indicates something is almost nonexistent or done to a very small degree, less than “quite.”
- Completely: Implies a full extent or degree, stronger than “quite.”
