Far

Definition

Far refers to a great distance in space, time, or degree. It can describe physical remoteness, an extended duration, or a high degree of difference or extent.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɑr/
• Respelling: FAHR

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɑː/
• Respelling: FAH

Etymology

The word "far" originates from the Old English term "feor," meaning "to a great distance" or "remote," derived from Proto-Germanic "ferro" and Proto-Indo-European "per," meaning "beyond" or "through." It evolved into Middle English as "fer" and later as "far."

Derivatives

• Farther (adverb/adjective)
• Farthest (adverb/adjective)
• Faraway (adjective)
• Far-flung (adjective)
• Farness (noun)

Synonyms

• Distant
• Remote
• Removed

Antonyms

• Near
• Close
• Adjacent

Usage

The adverb "far" is commonly used to describe distance ("He traveled far from home.") or degree ("She is far more experienced than her peers."). As an adjective, it denotes remoteness ("a far country"). It often appears in comparative and superlative forms, such as "farther" and "farthest."

Related Terms

• Distance: The measure of space between two points.
• Remoteness: The state of being distant or isolated.
• Beyond: At or to a point further than.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• At or to a great distance in space: Refers to physical remoteness.
  • Example: "The ship sailed far out to sea."
• To a large extent or degree: Describes a high level or extreme degree.
  • Example: "The new policy is far better than the old one."
• For a long time: Indicates an extended duration or temporal remoteness.
  • Example: "The tradition dates back far into history."

Adjective

• Located at a great distance: Refers to physical or metaphorical remoteness.
  • Example: "They live in a far village beyond the mountains."
• Extending or reaching to a considerable degree: Describes extent or impact.
  • Example: "The reforms had far-reaching consequences."