Spoken English phrase

What does “that's fair” mean?

That's fair means your point is reasonable or easy to understand. People often use it to show they get your point before they explain more or change the plan.

Practise it in “Giving feedback”

When people say it

When someone gives a good reason: "That's fair. Let's do it tomorrow."
When someone says your plan is too long or too hard: "That's fair. We can make it shorter."
When someone says a time does not work: "That's fair. Let's start later."
In light jokes, to admit they have a point: "That's fair. 6:15 is rough."

Tone: Casual to neutral, friendly, and understanding. If you say only this and stop, it can sound a little short or cold.

Careful: Do not read it only as "fairness". In many talks, it means "That makes sense" or "I can understand that". If you mean real fairness or equal treatment, say that more clearly.

In 7 of Lin's scenes

Real lines from the scenes. Open one to watch it and say it yourself.

That's fair—where did you zone out, so I can tighten it up?Giving feedback · Advanced

That's fair. What kind of adjustment did you have in mind?Asking for a raise · Advanced

That's fair. We'll miss you—especially whoever fights that printer.Resigning · Intermediate

That's fair. My snacks usually disappear before I can say hello.Asking if a seat is taken · Advanced

That's fair—if you answer cheerful at 6:15, I'll assume you've been replaced.Asking for a wake-up call · Advanced

That's fair—I was building a shelf, and the chair became my ladder.Asking a neighbor to be quieter · Advanced

Honestly, that's fair. I can also put you on the standby list.A delayed flight · Advanced

Shadow

Line by line

LinThat's fair—where did you zone out, so I can tighten it up?
LinThat's fair. What kind of adjustment did you have in mind?
LinThat's fair. We'll miss you—especially whoever fights that printer.

Other ways to say it

Fair enough

Very close, but it often sounds more like "okay, I accept that" and can end the topic.

I get that

Shows understanding of the person more than saying the point is reasonable.

That's reasonable

More direct and a little more formal.

Quick answers

Does "that's fair" mean the same as "I agree"?

Not exactly. It often means "your point makes sense" even if you do not fully agree with everything.

Can "that's fair" sound sarcastic?

Yes. Tone matters. In a flat or annoyed voice, it can sound sarcastic. In normal friendly talk, it usually sounds understanding.

More phrases

that works / it works nice to meet you pretty good a couple of feel like…feel better get there for one/two no more leave it All phrases →