adv
Common
kinda
KYN-duh
Kinda (adv) means Somewhat, or to some extent — an informal, spoken-style contraction of "kind of.". Example: “The movie was kinda boring, to be honest.”
adv
1
Somewhat, or to some extent — an informal, spoken-style contraction of "kind of."
"But when I spoke about it he just smiled and shook his head, and started whistling to himself kinda soft."
— Courtney Ryley Cooper, Somewhere Safe to Sea (1912)
"In those days, flour sacks was kinda purty. They might come printed up with flowers on em, or birds."
— Ron Hall, Denver Moore (2006)
"I kinda hafta do this right now."
"The movie was kinda boring, to be honest."
"I'm kinda hungry, want to grab lunch?"
"It's kinda cold outside, so you should probably take a coat."
How to use kinda
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA casual spoken way of writing "kind of," used to soften a statement.
When to use it
Very informal — fine in texting or casual speech, but avoid in essays, reports, or professional writing.
Common pairings
kinda weird
kinda like
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Word forms
- Plural
- kindas
Fill the gap
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The movie was _____ boring, to be honest.
Etymology
A written, informal spelling of the spoken contraction of "kind of."
Related words
Rhymes for kinda
See all rhymes for kinda →Frequently asked questions
What does “kinda” mean?
The word “kinda” means somewhat, or to some extent — an informal, spoken-style contraction of "kind of.". In plain terms, a casual spoken way of writing "kind of," used to soften a statement.
How do you pronounce “kinda”?
“Kinda” is pronounced KYN-duh (/ˈkaɪndə/ in IPA).
How do you use “kinda” in a sentence?
Here is “kinda” used in a sentence: “The movie was kinda boring, to be honest.”
What part of speech is “kinda”?
“Kinda” is an adverb.
Is “kinda” a common word?
“Kinda” is a fairly common word in modern English.
Is 'kinda' a real word?
Yes, "kinda" is a recognised informal word, listed in major dictionaries as a casual spelling of "kind of." It reflects how the phrase actually sounds in relaxed speech. That said, it belongs in conversation, texting, and casual writing — not in formal essays or professional documents.
What is the difference between 'kinda' and 'kind of'?
There is no difference in meaning — "kinda" is simply how "kind of" is often pronounced and then written down. "Kind of" is the standard form suitable for any context, while "kinda" is a relaxed spelling reserved for informal, spoken-style writing. Choose "kind of" whenever you want to sound correct.
Is 'kinda' formal or informal?
"Kinda" is firmly informal. It suits casual conversation, social media, and texting, where its easy, spoken tone feels natural. In school work, business emails, or any formal writing you should write "kind of" or a clearer alternative such as "somewhat" or "rather" instead.
How do you use 'kinda' in a sentence?
"Kinda" softens a statement, meaning "somewhat" or "a little." You might say "I'm kinda tired" or "It's kinda cold today." It can also express a rough yes, as in "Do you like it?" — "Kinda." In each case it makes the sentence sound casual and understated.
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