fine
The weather is fine today.
The weather is pleasant and good today.
acceptable or satisfactory
The food was fine, but not exceptional.
The food was good enough, but not outstanding.
Often used to express mild approval or to avoid being critical.
a sum of money imposed as a penalty
The court imposed a fine of $500 for the violation.
The court ordered the offender to pay $500 as a penalty.
Common in legal contexts.
to pay a penalty or fee
You will be fined if you park illegally.
You will have to pay a penalty if you park in the wrong place.
Used as a verb to indicate the imposition of a penalty.
Collocations
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'fine' changes based on context—adjective, noun, or verb.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
Using 'fine' too often can make your speech sound vague or unenthusiastic.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'fyn,' meaning 'end, conclusion,' from Old French 'fin,' from Latin 'finis,' meaning 'end.' The sense of 'penalty' developed in the 16th century.
Usage Notes
As an adjective, 'fine' is often used to express mild approval. As a noun, it refers to a penalty. As a verb, it means to impose or pay a penalty.