All Ears English Podcast AEE 2459: Grammar That Breaks the Rules Part 3: Hardly Fair or Fairly Hard?
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Aug 12, 2025 Explore the fascinating world of English grammar, diving into the meanings of 'fair' and 'fairly.' Discover the gap between language expectations and reality, especially with tricky adverb usage. Enjoy a camping story in Utah that cleverly illustrates the nuances of the word 'hardly.' Learn how to navigate sensitive topics like lateness among friends, and unravel common grammar misconceptions involving adverbs that end in 'ly.' Get ready to enhance your English skills with practical insights and engaging discussions!
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Trying Board Ball For The First Time
- Aubrey tried a new game called Board Ball and expected it to be fairly easy.
- It turned out fairly hard because it required different quick-movement skills than volleyball.
Lately Means Recently
- 'Lately' does not mean 'late'; it means recently in the near past.
- Use questions like "What have you been up to lately?" to remember it refers to recent events.
Fairly Means Moderately
- 'Fair' (just, light in color) and 'fairly' do not share the same core meaning.
- Use 'fairly' to mean moderately or reasonably, e.g., "the exam was fairly easy."