fair dos

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/ˌfɛə ˈduːz/
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A British informal expression for accepting that something is fair or reasonable, giving credit, or asking for equal treatment.

Examples

  • Fair dos to the referee, it was a difficult call.
  • Fair dos, I would have complained too.
  • She worked late all week, so fair dos to her.
  • Fair dos, you warned me that the road would be closed.
  • Give him a chance, fair dos, he only started yesterday.

Similar words

fair enough
point taken
that's fair
reasonable enough
fair play
no argument

Meanings

Accepting fairness

conversation
informal
A British informal way to accept that something is fair, reasonable, or deserved, or to ask for fair treatment.

Examples

  • Fair dos, you warned me that the road would be closed.
  • She worked late all week, so fair dos to her.
  • Fair dos to the referee, it was a difficult call.
  • The price is higher than I hoped, but fair dos, the quality is excellent.
  • Fair dos, I would have complained too.
  • Give him a chance, fair dos, he only started yesterday.

Similar words

Etymology

The exact origin is uncertain. The older spelling fair do's is recorded from the nineteenth century, and the phrase is connected with fair shares or fair treatment.

FAQ

What does fair dos mean?

Fair dos is a British informal phrase meaning fair enough, reasonable, deserved, or a call for fair treatment.

Is fair dos British?

Yes. Fair dos is mainly British and informal, though it may be understood elsewhere through British media or conversation.

Is fair dos the same as fair enough?

Often yes. Fair dos can work like fair enough, especially when accepting that someone has a point.

How do you pronounce fair dos?

Fair dos is pronounced /ˌfɛə ˈduːz/, with the second word sounding like dooz.

Is fair do's also correct?

Yes. Fair do's is an older or alternative spelling, while fair dos is also used.

Can fair dos be used in formal writing?

Usually no. Fair dos is informal and conversational, so formal writing normally uses fair enough, reasonable, or fair treatment.

Where does fair dos come from?

The origin is not fully settled. Older records use fair do's, and dictionary evidence connects the phrase with fair shares or fair treatment.

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