Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Not Half

Quick summary: An informal British phrase used for strong emphasis, often meaning very or really.

What does it mean?

Not half is used for emphasis. In real speech, phrases like not half bad or not half tired usually mean quite good or very tired, depending on context.

Is it positive or negative?

It is neutral by itself. The meaning depends on the adjective or phrase that follows.

When do you use it?

Use it in informal speech for emphasis, especially in reactions or descriptions.

Examples

Example 1: I was not half tired after that long drive.

Example 2: That meal was not half bad, actually.

Question for you

What is something you would describe as not half bad?

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