fairly, quite, rather and pretty: adverbs of degree

These four modifiers differ somewhat in strength, though their exact force depends on the context. This entry gives a brief explanation of their use with gradable descriptive words (see here) in British English. Note also that quite and rather (in the senses discussed here) are more common in British than American English, as is fairly. For more information about quite and rather, (see here).

fairly

Fairly generally modifies adjectives and adverbs. It does not suggest a very high degree: if you say that somebody is fairly nice or fairly clever, for example, he or she will not be very pleased.

• ‘How was the film?’ ‘Fairly good. Not the best one I’ve seen this year.’
• I speak Russian fairly well – enough for everyday purposes.

quite

Quite (especially in British English) can suggest a higher degree than fairly.

• ‘How was the film?’ ‘Quite good. You ought to go.’
• It’s quite a difficult book – I had trouble with it.
• He’s lived in St Petersburg, so he speaks Russian quite well.

Quite can also modify verbs and nouns.

• I quite enjoyed myself at your party.
• The room was quite a mess.

rather

Rather is stronger than quite. It can suggest ‘more than is usual’, ‘more than was expected’, ‘more than was wanted’, and similar ideas.

• ‘How was the film?’ ‘Rather good – I was surprised.’
• Maurice speaks Russian rather well. People often think he is Russian.
• I think I’ll put the heating on. It’s rather cold.
• I’ve had rather a long day.

Rather can modify verbs (especially verbs that refer to thoughts and feelings) and nouns.

• I rather think we’re going to lose.
• She rather likes gardening.
• It was rather a disappointment.

note

For word order rules and other details of the use of rather, (see here).

pretty

Pretty (informal) is like rather, but only modifies adjectives and adverbs.

• ‘How’s things?’ ‘Pretty good. You OK?’
• You’re driving pretty fast.

Pretty well means ‘almost’.

• I’ve pretty well finished.