standard fare: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘standard fare’ mean?
The idiom "standard fare" refers to something that is typical or expected, often used to describe food, entertainment, or content. It implies that the item or experience is ordinary and not particularly exciting or exceptional.
Idiom Explorer
An idiom used to emphasize the extreme or exceptional quality of someone or something.
The idiom "that ever walked on two legs" is a colloquial expression used in American English. This idiom emphasizes the exceptional qualities or characteristics of someone or something. It is often used in a hyperbolic manner to convey a sense of awe, admiration, or astonishment.
The idiom "take for granted" means to not appreciate or value something or someone because it is always present or easily available.
The idiom "straight goods" means telling the truth or giving honest information without any deception or exaggeration.
A "stock phrase" is a commonly used expression or phrase that has become cliché or predictable. It lacks originality and often lacks meaning due to its overuse.
The idiom "square meal" refers to a satisfying and complete meal that provides all the necessary nutrients and is filling. It is often used to emphasize the importance of having a nutritious and well-balanced meal.
An idiom widely used to refer to something insignificant or unimportant. It implies that the mentioned object or amount is of little value or significance.
The idiom "settle for" means to accept or choose something that is less desirable or satisfactory than what was originally wanted or expected.
The idiom "second-rate" refers to something of inferior quality or standard compared to others in the same category.
The idiom "second-rate" is commonly used in English to describe something of inferior quality or value. It is often used to express disappointment or dissatisfaction with the perceived mediocrity or substandard nature of a person, thing, or situation.
The idiom "same old story" means a situation or story that is repetitive, familiar, and uninteresting due to its lack of change or variation.
The idiom "same old story" is a commonly used phrase in American English with a specific meaning. It refers to a situation or narrative that is repetitive, predictable, or unchanging. This idiom is often used to express a sense of frustration, boredom, or resignation.
The idiom "par for the course" means that something is typical or expected in a given situation.
Origins Dissected
The idiom "standard fare" is commonly used in the English language. It refers to something that is typical, ordinary, or to be expected. The phrase is often used in various contexts, such as in conversation, writing, and even in advertisements or promotional materials.
One key aspect of the idiom is its origin in the transportation industry. "Fare" originally referred to the amount of money paid for transportation, particularly for public transportation like buses or trains. In this context, "standard fare" denoted the regular price or fee for a ride, as opposed to discounted or special fares. This usage dates back to at least the late 19th century, and it has since become a common idiomatic expression.
Over time, the meaning of "standard fare" expanded beyond transportation to encompass a broader range of subjects. It is commonly used to describe items or activities that conform to a conventional or expected norm, without any exceptional or extraordinary qualities. For instance, if someone refers to a book, movie, or meal as "standard fare," they are implying that it is average or unremarkable. This idiom is related to the idioms "common or garden variety" and "garden variety."
The idiomatic phrase "common or garden variety" is another way to express something ordinary or typical, similar to "standard fare." It conveys the idea that something is easily found or of average quality. For example, if someone says, "It's just your common or garden variety smartphone," they are suggesting that it is a regular, everyday device without any special features or qualities. This phrase adds emphasis to the idea of something being typical or unremarkable.
The idiom "garden variety" is similar to "common or garden variety" and "standard fare" in its meaning. It is often used to describe something as ordinary or unexceptional. For instance, if someone says, "It's just your garden variety car," they are indicating that it is a typical or average car, without any outstanding features or characteristics. This idiom emphasizes the lack of uniqueness or specialness in a particular item or situation.
In addition to "common or garden variety" and "garden variety," another related idiom is "par for the course." This expression is often used to describe something that is typical or usual, much like "standard fare." Its origin lies in the game of golf, where "par" refers to the number of strokes a skilled golfer is expected to take to complete a hole. If someone says, "It's just par for the course," they are suggesting that a situation or outcome is to be expected or is not surprising. This idiom highlights the idea that something is in line with what is considered normal or typical.
Lastly, the idiom "nothing special" is closely related to "standard fare" in its implication. When someone says, "It's nothing special," they are indicating that a person, thing, or experience is not exceptional or noteworthy. This idiom emphasizes the lack of excitement or uniqueness in a particular situation. It is often used informally and conveys a casual or indifferent attitude towards something.
The idioms "common or garden variety," "garden variety," "par for the course," and "nothing special" all share a similar theme with "standard fare." They all convey the idea of something being ordinary, typical, or lacking any exceptional qualities. Whether used in conversation, writing, or casual speech, these idioms allow individuals to express their familiarity or lack of enthusiasm towards a particular subject or experience in a concise and relatable manner.
"Standard fare" is an idiomatic expression that has evolved from its origins in the transportation industry to encompass a wider range of meanings. It is commonly used to refer to something ordinary, typical, or expected. Through its usage, individuals convey a sense of conformity or lack of excitement about a particular subject. While it may seem straightforward, the idiom carries subtle nuances that allow for deeper exploration and interpretation in different situations. As language and communication continue to evolve, there remains potential for further understanding and usage of this idiom in diverse and unexpected ways.
Example usage
- The restaurant menu had all the standard fare such as burgers, sandwiches, and fries.
- The conference served the standard fare of coffee, tea, and pastries during the breaks.
- The movie was entertaining, but it followed the standard fare plot of a hero saving the day.