The phrase "more afar" refers to something that is further away. The spelling of "afar" is derived from the Middle English word "afer," which means "at a distance." It is pronounced as /əˈfɑr/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The sound /ə/ is known as a schwa and represents the unstressed syllable of the word. The stress falls on the second syllable, which is pronounced as /fɑr/ with the "a" sound representing the "ah" sound as in "father."
"More afar" is a phrase that typically refers to a greater distance or a greater degree of remoteness. The word "more" serves to amplify or emphasize the level of distance or remoteness being described, while "afar" refers to a far or distant place. Combining these words, "more afar" suggests an even greater extent of distance, beyond what is typically considered far.
In a literal sense, "more afar" indicates a physical location that is situated at a greater distance from the current point of reference. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is more distant or removed in a figurative sense. For example, when considering cultures or ideologies, "more afar" could connote those that are further removed from one's own familiar culture or beliefs.
Additionally, the phrase can convey a sense of detachment or separation. It implies a level of removedness that may be difficult to access or comprehend. In this context, "more afar" signifies a distance that is not easily bridged, whether it be a physical, emotional, or intellectual gap. It encompasses the idea that something is beyond one's immediate reach or understanding.
Overall, "more afar" suggests an enhanced remoteness, either in terms of physical distance or figurative separation, highlighting a greater degree of removedness.
The phrase "more afar" does not have its own distinct etymology as it is a combination of two separate words: "more" and "afar".
- "More" originates from the Old English word "māra", which means greater or additional. It has Germanic roots and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
- "Afar" comes from the Middle English word "afer" or "of feor", which means at a distance or from a distance. It can be traced back to the Old English word "of feor", where "of" means from, and "feor" means far or distant.
When the two words are combined, "more afar" essentially conveys the idea of something being further or at a greater distance.