adverb
quite
To a considerable degree, or completely in some expressions.
The hike to the lake is quite a challenge.
Etymology
The older word meant free, clear, or completely discharged. From completeness, quite developed both a complete-degree use and a weaker considerable-degree use.
More examples
- The soup is quite spicy, so I eat slowly.
- I'm quite sure I left my keys here.
- We're not quite ready to leave yet.
Similar words
- very
- Expresses a high degree without the possible meaning of completeness.
- rather
- Often suggests a noticeable degree with surprise or reservation.
- completely
- Explicitly means fully, rather than merely to a considerable degree.