Fair vs Fare: What’s the Difference?
Learn the difference between “fair” vs “fare” and how to use each correctly, with simple explanations and examples.
English has many homophones, which are words that sound the same but have different meanings. “Fair” and “fare” are classic examples of this. Knowing the difference helps you use them correctly and avoid common mistakes.
In this guide, you’ll find the meanings, uses, and examples of “fair” and “fare” to help you use each word correctly.
What Does “Fair” Mean?
Fair has several meanings and can act as an adjective, noun, or adverb.
Fair as an Adjective
As an adjective, fair describes something just, unbiased, or attractive.
- Just and Unbiased: You can use “fair” to indicate something honest or impartial.
- Example: The teacher gave a fair grade based on effort.
- Light-Colored or Attractive: “Fair” can also mean light-skinned or beautiful.
- Example: She has fair skin that tans easily.
Fair as a Noun
As a noun, fair refers to a public event with games, entertainment, and vendors.
- Example: We went to the fair and enjoyed the food and rides.
Fair as an Adverb
As an adverb, fair means “in a just or honest way.”
- Example: He played fair and earned respect from his teammates.
What Does “Fare” Mean?
Fare is more specific and typically relates to costs, survival, or types of food.
Fare as a Noun
As a noun, fare can mean the cost of transportation or a type of food.
- Transportation Cost: Use “fare” when discussing travel prices.
- Example: The fare for the train to New York is $25.
- Food or Cuisine: “Fare” can refer to a particular style or variety of food.
- Example: The restaurant serves Italian fare, like pasta and pizza.
Fare as a Verb
As a verb, fare means to perform or get along in a situation.
- Example: She fared well in her first year of college.
“Fair” vs “Fare”: Key Differences
Fair and fare serve different purposes and meanings. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Aspect | Fair | Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Just, attractive, or an event with entertainment | Travel cost, food type, or how someone manages or survives |
| Function | Adjective, noun, adverb | Noun, verb |
| Examples | It’s fair to give everyone a chance. | The fare for the bus is $3. |
| Common Use | Used in contexts of justice, beauty, and events | Often seen in travel, cuisine, and performance contexts |
How to Remember the Differences Between Fair and Fare
Here are some quick tricks to help you remember the distinct meanings of “fair” and “fare“:
- “Fair” and Justice or Beauty:
- Memory Tip: Think of “fair” as “fairness” or “fairytale beauty.”
- Example: If something is fair, it’s just (fair treatment) or lovely (fair face).
- “Fare” and Cost or Survival:
- Memory Tip: Link “fare” with “farewell”—a journey that costs money or requires survival skills.
- Example: You pay a fare to travel or eat, or you fare well in a situation.
- Event vs. Expense:
- Trick: If you’re talking about an event with fun activities, it’s a “fair” (like a county fair).
- Example: You go to a fair for entertainment, but pay a fare for a bus ride.
- Word Associations:
- Fair often relates to fairness or attractiveness.
- Fare often relates to fares (travel costs) or farewell journeys (survival).
Try these simple memory aids to ensure you use “fair” and “fare” accurately every time!
Examples of “Fair” and “Fare” in Sentences
Here are examples to solidify the meanings of each word:
Fair Examples
- Fair as Justice: It’s fair to listen to everyone’s opinion before deciding.
- Fair as Attractive: She has fair hair and blue eyes.
- Fair as an Event: The annual fair had games, food, and live music.
Fare Examples
- Fare as Transportation Cost: The fare for a taxi is higher at night.
- Fare as Food: The restaurant serves traditional Mexican fare.
- Fare as Survival or Performance: He fared poorly in the harsh winter.
Common Phrases with “Fair” and “Fare”
Learning common phrases with “fair” and “fare” can help reinforce when to use each word.
Phrases with “Fair”
- Fair and square: Completely honest and just.
- Example: She won the contest fair and square.
- A fair-weather friend: Someone who’s only there for you during good times.
- Example: He proved to be a fair-weather friend when times got tough.
Phrases with “Fare”
- Fare thee well: An old-fashioned way of saying goodbye.
- Example: Fare thee well, until we meet again.
- Come fair or foul: No matter what circumstances may arise.
- Example: She promised to support him, come fair or foul.
Common Mistakes with “Fair” and “Fare”
Confusing “fair” and “fare” is common. Here’s how to avoid typical errors:
- Mistaking Travel Costs (fare) with Justice (fair): Remember, “fare” relates to costs or food, while “fair” describes justice or beauty.
- Incorrect: The bus fair was too high.
- Correct: The bus fare was too high.
- Using “Fair” for Performance or Outcome: When discussing how someone handled a situation, use “fare” as the verb.
- Incorrect: She fair-ed well under pressure.
- Correct: She fared well under pressure.
Summary: Fair vs Fare
In summary, use “fair” when discussing honesty, beauty, or public events. Use “fare” when talking about costs, food, or how someone manages in a situation. Keeping these differences in mind will help you use each word correctly and avoid common mistakes.
