You should ask someone, “how are you faring?” when you want to know about their health or well-being. It would be wrong to ask “how are you fairing?”
The word “faring” is used to describe someone’s state or how they are dealing with things.
The word “fairing” would not be used here, though. A fairing is a frame that lowers wind resistance so that something can move faster, like a ship or car.
How are you faring or fairing? Which is correct?
The correct form is ‘How are you faring?’
When you ask someone, “How are you faring?” you’re asking how they are doing in life or in a new job, location, etc.
The word ‘faring’ is a verb that comes from ‘to fare,’ which means to go through an experience.
- Correct: “How are you faring?”
- Incorrect: “How are you fairing?”
What’s the difference between ‘faring’ and ‘fairing’?
Understanding the differences between “faring” and “fairing” is important when deciding which one to use.
Context for the use of ‘faring’
When talking about personal conditions or situations, ‘faring’ is always your go-to word. It is a verb that describes how someone or something is progressing or feeling in a specific situation.
Examples of using the word ‘faring’
- “How are you faring in your new home?”
- “How’s the team faring with the tight deadline?”
- “How did you end up faring in your finals?”
Context for the use of ‘fairing’
‘Fairing’ has to do with the shape and structure of something as it moves through air or water, like with planes or boats. It refers to a structure designed to streamline and reduce drag(due to air).
Examples of the use of the word ‘fairing’
- “The fairing on the airplane was designed to reduce drag.”
- “The bodywork on the car was very streamlined, with side fairings.”
- “The motorcycle’s fairing was damaged in the accident.”
Here’s a simple guide to help you remember the difference:
| Faring | Fairing |
| Used to ask about someone’s condition or how they are doing | A term mostly used in aerodynamics |
Examples of ‘Faring’ Used in a Sentence:
“How are you faring in this new city? “
“How is your sister faring at her new job? “
“The expedition team isn’t faring too well.“
“They’re faring through the storm as best as they can.“
“The tourists were faring well despite the language barrier.“
“You are faring excellently in your new role as team leader.“
“Since adopting a healthier lifestyle, he’s been faring much better.“
“The new policy has the agricultural sector faring better than last quarter.“
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it appropriate to ask someone ‘How are you faring’?
Yes, asking “How are you faring?” is a polite and somewhat formal way of inquiring about someone’s well-being. It is more commonly used in British English and can express genuine concern for how the person is doing in a specific situation or in general.
What are common synonyms for ‘How are you faring’?
Common synonyms for this phrase include “How are you doing?”, “How’s it going?” and “How are you holding up?”. These alternatives range from casual to moderately formal language.
In what context can ‘I’m not faring well’ be used?
“I’m not faring well” can be used in a context where someone is experiencing difficulties or challenges. It conveys that the person is not doing well or is finding a situation not to their favor. This expression can apply to physical health, emotional state, or any life situation.
