As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To appear to be reasonable, correct or just considering the circumstances or evidence. English = (be) fair. 2. To be neither very good or very bad and to be suitable or normal for the occasion. English = (be) acceptable, (be) average. 3. To look like or appear to be. English = seem. As Modifier: 1. Used to introduce a judgement which is contrary to a previously expressed one and which you hope helps to balance the general picture. English = 'To be fair.' 2. Used to introduce a sentence to mean you think that what follows is true but you are not completely sure. English = apparently, seemingly.