1
Reject a description
Deny emphatically that a label applies.
Example
The result is far from conclusive.
far from
/ˌfɑː ˈfrɒm/ · FAR fromemphatic contrast phrase
Not at all, or very different from, the description or condition that follows.
Use far from to signal this exact relationship between ideas: not at all, or very different from, the description or condition that follows.
What far from Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Reverse an expectation
Show that reality strongly contradicts an assumption.
Example
Far from declining, demand increased.
3
Mark large difference
State that one condition is nowhere near another.
Example
The recovered text is far from complete.
Use far from Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The result is far from conclusive.
Far from declining, demand increased.
The recovered text is far from complete.
Precision Matters
Far from overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
far from
vs.Signals not at all, or very different from, the description or condition that follows.
contrary to
Means in opposition to, or different from, what is stated or expected.
far from
vs.Signals not at all, or very different from, the description or condition that follows.
at odds with
Means in conflict, disagreement, or incompatibility with.
far from
vs.Signals not at all, or very different from, the description or condition that follows.
by and large
Means generally or for the most part, while allowing exceptions.
far from
vs.Signals not at all, or very different from, the description or condition that follows.
fall short of
Means fail to reach a required amount, standard, goal, or expectation.
Test far from in Context
The evidence strongly reverses the description of the port as marginal.
1
___ being a marginal outpost, the port appears to have been the region’s main commercial centre.