far - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
far Word Meanings
- at a great distance
- to a large extent
- in the future or past
far Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
far Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/fɑː/
US
/fɑr/
far Word Etymology
far = for + ah, meaning 'forward' or 'at a distance'. Origin: Old English → Middle English → Modern English. Picture a vast endless horizon, where distant mountains loom in the background, representing something far away.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I breathe in and reach my hand toward the edge of the table. I move my fingers, turn my wrist, and press a little to test what sits beyond. The effort makes the space real, my shoulders settle, and I pull the object closer. In that small tug, the feeling of far grows from a line on a map to something I can touch and to moments I might reach in the future or recall from the past.
Real Context
Far is a flexible word used to describe distance, extent, or time that is not near. Physically distant places are far from us, but far can also express a large degree or contrast, as in far more or far from the truth. It also refers to the distant future or past when talking about events that are not immediate. In everyday speech, far often appears with phrases like far away, far from home, or far into the future, and it commonly takes modifiers such as very or much to emphasize intensity. The idea of far hinges on perspective, balance between literal distance and figurative reach, and cultural imagery of horizons.
Usage Reminders
- Describe distance or extent clearly; use far with phrases like far away or far from; indicate time with far into the future or far in the past; pair with very or much for intensity; avoid mixing far with near for the same context; remember far can be literal or metaphorical depending on context.
Common Misconceptions
- Far always means a large physical distance (it can be metaphorical).
- Far is more formal than near in all contexts.
- You should always use farther or furthest for any distance.
- Far cannot describe time, only space.
- Never combine far with intensifiers like very.
Thinking Differences
Think of far as a broad canvas: distance, amount, and time can all be 'far'. Learners often default to near or confuse far with longer adjectives; remember far can describe both literal space and figurative distance, and context decides.
Learning Tips
- Practice with physical and metaphorical distance (far away vs far from home).
- Pair with intensifiers (very, much) to adjust emphasis.
- Learn common collocations like far away, far from here, far into the future.
- Distinguish far from farther/farthest in comparisons.
- Notice time sense: future far ahead vs near-term events.
- Use authentic context to decide literal vs figurative meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'far'?
A.Distant
B.Close
C.Near
D.Adjacent
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses the word 'far' correctly?
A.She lives far from the city.
B.The book is far on the table.
C.He goes far his homework every day.
D.We need to go far to get groceries.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'far'?
A.Remote
B.Close
C.Nearby
D.Adjacent
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'far'?
A.Inside
B.Close
C.Proximity
D.Immediate
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where the word 'far' would be used?
A.Driving a long distance to visit family
B.Sitting in a small room with friends
C.Walking to the nearest store
D.Having a quick chat with a neighbor
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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