far

The word “far” means distant in space or time. In plain terms, distant, or (as an adverb) used to describe distance or degree of difference.

“Far” is pronounced fah (/fɑɹ/ in IPA).

Here is “far” used in a sentence: “They travelled to a far country in search of work.”

The opposite of “far” — its antonyms — are close and near.

Depending on how it is used, “far” can be an adjective and an adverb.

The word “far” comes from Old English. From Old English feor, "far, distant," from a Proto-Germanic root.

“Far” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Far” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: distant in space or time.

The opposite of 'far' is 'near' or 'close'. 'Far' describes something a great distance away in space or time, while 'near' and 'close' describe something a short distance away. You might say a shop is far from home, or reassure someone that help is near.

'Far' and 'distant' both mean a long way off and are often interchangeable. 'Far' is the plainer, more everyday word, common in speech and casual writing. 'Distant' sounds slightly more formal or literary and can also suggest emotional coolness, as in 'a distant relative' or 'a distant manner'.

Yes. Although 'far' most often describes physical distance, it applies to time too. We speak of the 'far future' or something happening 'far back in history'. In both cases the idea is the same — a large gap between here and there, whether measured in miles or in years.