fair to middling

Idioms and Phrases

Mediocre, pretty good, so-so, as in I asked them how they liked their new home and John answered, “Fair to middling . This phrase, often a reply to an inquiry about one's health, business, or the like, is redundant, since fair and middling both mean “moderately good.” [Mid-1800s] Also see can't complain .

Example Sentences

Based on the poetry-in-progress quoted in the novel, Harry seems at best a fair-to-middling poet.

From The Daily Beast

She concerned herself far more with Luke, an active, fair-to-middling American boy somewhat inclined to be spoiled.

From Project Gutenberg

He for one had enjoyed himself just fair-to-middling, he said.

From Project Gutenberg

"Moore, he's a fair-to-middling horse," said Belllounds, with the air of judge of horseflesh.

From Project Gutenberg

He played a fair-to-middling game; and nothing more need be said of him.

From Project Gutenberg