What is the difference between mediocre and middling?

Definitions

mediocre

- Describing something that is average or ordinary in quality.

- Referring to a performance or achievement that is not outstanding or exceptional.

- Talking about a person who is not particularly talented or skilled.

middling

- Describing something that is average or moderate in quality.

- Referring to a performance or achievement that is neither outstanding nor poor.

- Talking about a person who is moderately talented or skilled.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words describe something that is average or moderate in quality.
• 2. Both can be used to describe a performance or achievement that is not exceptional.
• 3. Both can be used to describe a person who is not particularly talented or skilled.

What is the difference?

• 1. Connotation: Mediocre has a more negative connotation than middling, which is more neutral.
• 2. Usage: Mediocre is more commonly used than middling.
• 3. Degree: Mediocre implies a lower level of quality than middling.
• 4. Frequency: Mediocre is used more frequently than middling in everyday language.

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Remember this!

Mediocre and middling are synonyms that describe something of average or moderate quality, a performance or achievement that is not exceptional, or a person who is not particularly talented or skilled. However, mediocre has a more negative connotation and implies a lower level of quality than middling, which is more neutral. Additionally, mediocre is more commonly used and has a higher frequency in everyday language.