Top 45 Slang For Average – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to everyday conversations, having a good grasp of slang for average can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking to blend in with the cool kids or simply want to stay up to date with the latest linguistic trends, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we break down some of the most common and trendy terms used to describe the average Joe or Jane in today’s fast-paced world. Get ready to level up your slang game and impress your friends with your newfound lingo knowledge!

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1. Meh

Used to express a lack of interest or enthusiasm towards something. It can also indicate that something is mediocre or unimpressive.

For example, when asked how the movie was, someone might respond, “Eh, it was just meh.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling meh about going to the party tonight.”
In a review of a restaurant, someone might write, “The food was meh, nothing special.”

2. So-so

Used to describe something that is average or mediocre. It indicates a lack of enthusiasm or strong opinion.

For instance, if someone asks how a meal was, a person might say, “It was so-so.”
When discussing a performance, someone might comment, “The singer was so-so, not great but not terrible.”
In a review of a book, someone might write, “The story was so-so, it didn’t really stand out.”

3. Middle of the road

Refers to something that is not exceptional but also not terrible. It suggests that something or someone is average or ordinary.

For example, when discussing a movie, someone might say, “It was a middle of the road film, not great but not terrible either.”
In a conversation about cars, someone might comment, “The sedan is a middle of the road choice, it’s not too expensive but also not very luxurious.”
When describing a student’s performance, a teacher might say, “He’s a middle of the road student, he’s not at the top of the class but also not struggling.”

4. Run of the mill

Refers to something that is common or ordinary. It suggests that something is not unique or special.

For instance, when discussing a restaurant, someone might say, “It’s just a run of the mill diner, nothing to write home about.”
In a conversation about fashion, someone might comment, “Her style is very run of the mill, nothing stands out.”
When describing a job, someone might say, “It’s just a run of the mill office job, nothing exciting.”

5. Fair to middling

Used to describe something that is neither good nor bad, but falls somewhere in between. It suggests a moderate level of quality or performance.

For example, when discussing a sports team’s performance, someone might say, “They’re fair to middling, not the best but not the worst either.”
In a conversation about a meal, someone might comment, “The food was fair to middling, nothing amazing but also not terrible.”
When describing a student’s grades, a teacher might say, “He’s been performing fair to middling, not failing but also not excelling.”

6. Ho-hum

This term is used to describe something that is average or ordinary, often in a lackluster or unexciting way.

For example, “The movie received ho-hum reviews from critics.”
A person might say, “The party was ho-hum, nothing special.”
Another might describe a meal as, “The food was ho-hum, nothing to write home about.”

7. Mediocre

This term refers to something that is of moderate or average quality, neither exceptionally good nor bad.

For instance, “The team’s performance was mediocre, they didn’t stand out.”
A person might say, “The restaurant had mediocre service, nothing to rave about.”
Another might comment, “The movie was mediocre, I expected more from it.”

8. Standard

This term is used to describe something that is considered normal or average, conforming to a set standard or expectation.

For example, “The dress code for the event is standard business attire.”
A person might say, “The hotel room was standard, nothing fancy.”
Another might comment, “The car’s features are pretty standard for this price range.”

9. Okay

This term is used to describe something that is neither exceptional nor terrible, but falls within an acceptable range.

For instance, “The presentation was okay, it could have been better.”
A person might say, “The food at the restaurant was okay, not amazing but not bad either.”
Another might comment, “The movie was okay, I wasn’t blown away but it was entertaining.”

10. Middle-of-the-pack

This term refers to something or someone that is neither outstanding nor at the bottom, but falls somewhere in the middle.

For example, “The team finished in the middle-of-the-pack in the competition.”
A person might say, “The hotel’s amenities are middle-of-the-pack, not the best but not the worst.”
Another might comment, “The car’s performance is middle-of-the-pack, it’s neither exceptionally fast nor slow.”

11. Average Joe

This term is used to refer to an ordinary, average person. It is often used to describe someone who is not particularly special or outstanding.

For example, “He’s just your average Joe, nothing remarkable about him.”
In a discussion about talent, someone might say, “Not everyone can be a superstar, most of us are just average Joes.”
A person might describe themselves as an average Joe, saying, “I’m just a regular guy trying to make a living.”

12. Plain Jane

This term is used to describe a person who is average or unremarkable in terms of appearance or personality. It is often used to refer to someone who is not particularly attractive or interesting.

For instance, “She’s not the most beautiful girl, just a plain Jane.”
In a conversation about dating, someone might say, “I’m tired of dating plain Janes, I want someone more exciting.”
A person might describe themselves as a plain Jane, saying, “I’m not the most glamorous person, just a plain Jane.”

13. Vanilla

This term is used to describe something or someone that is plain, ordinary, or lacking in excitement or originality. It is often used to refer to things that are considered mainstream or conventional.

For example, “Her fashion sense is very vanilla, she never takes risks.”
In a discussion about music, someone might say, “I prefer more experimental genres, mainstream pop music is too vanilla for me.”
A person might describe their taste in food as vanilla, saying, “I’m not into spicy or exotic flavors, I prefer something more vanilla.”

14. Lukewarm

This term is used to describe something that is neither hot nor cold, or someone who lacks enthusiasm or passion. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is mediocre or average.

For instance, “The coffee is lukewarm, I prefer it hot.”
In a conversation about a performance, someone might say, “The singer’s performance was lukewarm, it didn’t impress me.”
A person might describe their interest in a topic as lukewarm, saying, “I’m not really passionate about it, just lukewarm.”

15. Halfway decent

This term is used to describe something or someone that is moderately good or satisfactory, but not exceptional. It is often used to express a level of approval or satisfaction that is not overly enthusiastic.

For example, “The movie was halfway decent, it wasn’t amazing but it was enjoyable.”
In a discussion about a restaurant, someone might say, “The food is halfway decent, it’s not the best but it’s not bad either.”
A person might describe their skills in a particular activity as halfway decent, saying, “I’m not an expert, but I’m halfway decent at playing the guitar.”

16. Fairly good

When something is described as “fairly good,” it means that it is acceptable or satisfactory. It suggests that the thing being referred to is not exceptional, but it is also not bad.

For example, if someone asks how a movie was, you might respond, “It was fairly good. Not amazing, but enjoyable.”
A person might say, “The food at that restaurant is fairly good. It’s not the best I’ve had, but it’s decent.”
Someone might describe their performance in a game as “fairly good” if they didn’t excel but also didn’t perform poorly.

17. Not bad

When something is described as “not bad,” it means that it is good or satisfactory. It suggests that the thing being referred to is better than expected or better than average.

For instance, if someone asks how a meal was, you might respond, “It was not bad. I actually enjoyed it.”
A person might say, “I tried playing the guitar for the first time, and it’s not bad. I think I have some potential.”
Someone might comment on a friend’s artwork, saying, “Your drawing skills are not bad at all. Keep practicing!”

18. Middle-of-the-range

When something is described as “middle-of-the-range,” it means that it is average or mediocre. It suggests that the thing being referred to is neither exceptionally good nor exceptionally bad.

For example, if someone asks about the quality of a hotel, you might say, “It’s middle-of-the-range. It’s not luxurious, but it’s also not terrible.”
A person might describe a car as “middle-of-the-range” if it has decent features but is not particularly impressive.
Someone might comment on a movie, saying, “It’s a middle-of-the-range film. It’s not amazing, but it’s also not awful.”

19. Par for the course

When something is described as “par for the course,” it means that it is typical or expected. The phrase is often used when referring to something that is neither better nor worse than what is usually encountered.

For instance, if someone asks how your day was, you might respond, “It was par for the course. Nothing out of the ordinary.”
A person might say, “The traffic during rush hour is always par for the course. It’s always congested.”
Someone might comment on a coworker’s performance, saying, “He did a decent job, nothing exceptional, but par for the course.”

20. In the middle

When something is described as “in the middle,” it means that it is neither good nor bad. It suggests that the thing being referred to is average or mediocre.

For example, if someone asks how a book was, you might say, “It was in the middle. Not great, but not terrible either.”
A person might describe a restaurant as “in the middle” if the food and service were neither exceptional nor terrible.
Someone might comment on a student’s test score, saying, “It’s in the middle. Not the highest in the class, but not the lowest either.”

21. So far, so good

This phrase is used to describe a situation or progress that is proceeding well or as expected, without any major issues or problems.

For example, if someone asks how a project is going, a response might be, “So far, so good. We’re on track to meet our deadline.”
In a review of a new restaurant, someone might say, “The food was good, the service was prompt, and the atmosphere was pleasant. So far, so good.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their day by saying, “I’ve finished all my tasks for the morning, and everything is running smoothly. So far, so good.”

22. Not too great

This phrase is used to describe something that is average or ordinary, without being particularly good or impressive.

For instance, if someone asks how a movie was, a response might be, “It was okay, not too great.”
In a discussion about a recent sports performance, someone might comment, “The team played decently, but they were not too great.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their cooking skills by saying, “I can make a few basic dishes, but I’m not too great in the kitchen.”

23. Not too terrible

This phrase is used to describe something that is not particularly bad or unpleasant, but it is also not exceptional or impressive.

For example, if someone asks how a meal was, a response might be, “It was alright, not too terrible.”
In a review of a book, someone might say, “The plot was decent, the writing was okay, but it was not too terrible.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their singing abilities by saying, “I can carry a tune, but I’m not too terrible.”

24. Not too impressive

This phrase is used to describe something that is average or ordinary, without being particularly impressive or noteworthy.

For instance, if someone asks about a recent art exhibition, a response might be, “It was alright, not too impressive.”
In a discussion about a new technology, someone might comment, “The features are decent, but it’s not too impressive.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their academic achievements by saying, “I have good grades, but I’m not too impressive.”

25. Not too exciting

This phrase is used to describe something that is average or ordinary, without being particularly exciting or thrilling.

For example, if someone asks about a recent vacation, a response might be, “It was alright, not too exciting.”
In a discussion about a sports game, someone might comment, “The match was decent, but it was not too exciting.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their weekend plans by saying, “I have some errands to run, but it’s not too exciting.”

26. Not too outstanding

This phrase is used to describe something or someone that is not particularly impressive or remarkable. It suggests a lack of excellence or distinction.

For example, a teacher might say, “Your performance on this assignment was not too outstanding.”
In a review of a movie, a critic might write, “The film was entertaining but not too outstanding.”
A sports commentator might say, “The team’s performance was not too outstanding, but they managed to secure a win.”

27. Not too exceptional

This phrase suggests that something or someone is not particularly special or extraordinary. It conveys a sense of being average or typical.

For instance, a friend might say, “I had an okay day, nothing too exceptional.”
In a job interview, a candidate might describe their skills as “not too exceptional, but reliable.”
A food critic might write, “The dish was well-prepared, but not too exceptional in terms of flavor.”

28. Not too remarkable

This phrase indicates that something or someone is not particularly noteworthy or impressive. It implies a lack of outstanding qualities or characteristics.

For example, a student might say, “My grades this semester were not too remarkable.”
In a review of a concert, a critic might write, “The performance was decent, but not too remarkable.”
A traveler might describe a tourist attraction as “not too remarkable compared to other sites in the area.”

29. Not too extraordinary

This phrase suggests that something or someone is not particularly exceptional or remarkable. It conveys a sense of being within the normal range or standard.

For instance, a parent might say, “My child’s artwork is not too extraordinary, but they enjoy creating.”
In a discussion about achievements, someone might say, “I’ve had a few successes, but nothing too extraordinary.”
A reviewer might describe a book as “not too extraordinary,“not too extraordinary, but still an enjoyable read.”

30. Not too fantastic

This phrase indicates that something or someone is not particularly amazing or impressive. It suggests a lack of excitement or enthusiasm.

For example, a friend might say, “The movie was not too fantastic, but it was entertaining.”
In a conversation about a meal, someone might say, “The food was just okay, not too fantastic.”
A customer might describe a product as “not too fantastic,“not too fantastic, but it gets the job done.”

31. Not too fabulous

This phrase is used to describe something that is not exceptional or impressive. It suggests that something is average or ordinary, but not necessarily bad.

For example, if someone asks how a movie was, you might respond, “It was not too fabulous, but it was entertaining.”
In a review of a restaurant, you might say, “The food was not too fabulous, but it was decent.”
A person discussing a performance might comment, “The singer was not too fabulous, but they had a good voice.”

32. Not too amazing

This phrase indicates that something is not extraordinary or remarkable. It suggests that something is average or ordinary, without any exceptional qualities.

For instance, if someone asks how a concert was, you might reply, “It was not too amazing, but it was enjoyable.”
In a discussion about a sports game, you might say, “The team’s performance was not too amazing, but they played well.”
A person describing a vacation might comment, “The hotel was not too amazing, but it was clean and comfortable.”

33. Not too incredible

This phrase implies that something is not extremely impressive or outstanding. It suggests that something is ordinary or mediocre, without any extraordinary qualities.

For example, if someone asks about a book, you might say, “It was not too incredible, but it was a decent read.”
In a conversation about a painting, you might comment, “The artwork was not too incredible, but it had some interesting elements.”
A person discussing a performance might say, “The actor’s portrayal was not too incredible, but it was solid.”

34. Not too phenomenal

This phrase indicates that something is not exceptionally great or remarkable. It suggests that something is average or ordinary, without any outstanding qualities.

For instance, if someone asks about a new restaurant, you might respond, “It was not too phenomenal, but the food was decent.”
In a discussion about a concert, you might say, “The band’s performance was not too phenomenal, but it was enjoyable.”
A person describing a movie might comment, “The film was not too phenomenal, but it had some entertaining moments.”

35. Not too marvelous

This phrase suggests that something is not incredibly wonderful or impressive. It implies that something is average or ordinary, without any remarkable qualities.

For example, if someone asks about a party, you might reply, “It was not too marvelous, but it was fun.”
In a conversation about a play, you might comment, “The acting was not too marvelous, but it was decent.”
A person discussing a performance might say, “The dancer’s routine was not too marvelous, but it was enjoyable.”

36. Not too spectacular

This phrase is used to describe something that is average or ordinary, without any standout qualities.

For example, “The movie was not too spectacular, just your typical romantic comedy.”
A person might say, “The party was not too spectacular, just a small gathering with some friends.”
Someone might describe a meal as “not too spectacular,“not too spectacular, just a simple home-cooked dinner.”

37. Run-of-the-mill

This term is used to describe something that is common or typical, without any special features or qualities.

For instance, “The hotel room was run-of-the-mill, nothing fancy or luxurious.”
A person might say, “The job is run-of-the-mill, just a typical 9-to-5 office job.”
Someone might describe a car as “run-of-the-mill,“run-of-the-mill, just a standard model with no extra features.”

38. Middle-of-the-road

This phrase is used to describe something that is neither exceptional nor terrible, but falls somewhere in the middle.

For example, “The restaurant’s food is middle-of-the-road, not amazing but not bad either.”
A person might say, “The movie received mixed reviews, with most critics describing it as middle-of-the-road.”
Someone might describe their musical taste as “middle-of-the-road,“middle-of-the-road, enjoying a variety of genres without being too passionate about any one in particular.”

39. Mundane

This word is used to describe something that is dull, repetitive, or lacking excitement.

For instance, “The daily routine of going to work and doing household chores can become mundane.”
A person might say, “I need to find a hobby to escape the mundane aspects of everyday life.”
Someone might describe a task as “mundane,“mundane, just mindlessly filling out paperwork.”

40. Fair-to-middling

This phrase is used to describe something that is neither good nor bad, but falls somewhere in between.

For example, “The performance was fair-to-middling, not outstanding but not terrible either.”
A person might say, “The hotel’s amenities are fair-to-middling, offering basic necessities but nothing exceptional.”
Someone might describe their cooking skills as “fair-to-middling,“fair-to-middling, able to make decent meals but not a gourmet chef.”

41. Bog-standard

This slang term is commonly used in British English to describe something that is completely average or unremarkable.

For example, “The hotel room was bog-standard, nothing special.”
A person might say, “I’m just looking for a bog-standard car that gets me from point A to point B.”
In a discussion about everyday objects, someone might comment, “The toaster is bog-standard, nothing fancy.”

42. Meh-rage

This term is used to describe something that is mediocre or just okay. It conveys a sense of indifference or lack of enthusiasm.

For instance, “The movie was just meh-rage, not great but not terrible.”
A person might say, “The food at that restaurant is meh-rage, nothing to write home about.”
In a conversation about a recent concert, someone might comment, “The band’s performance was meh-rage, not their best.”

43. Middle-of-the-bell-curve

This phrase refers to something that falls within the range of what is considered average or typical. It is often used in discussions or comparisons.

For example, “His test scores are right in the middle of the bell curve.”
A person might say, “Her height is middle-of-the-bell-curve for women her age.”
In a conversation about income levels, someone might comment, “His salary is middle-of-the-bell-curve for someone in his profession.”

44. Betwixt and between

This phrase is used to describe a state or situation that is in between two options or positions. It implies being undecided or uncertain.

For instance, “I’m betwixt and between about which college to attend.”
A person might say, “She’s betwixt and between quitting her job and staying for the stability.”
In a discussion about relationship status, someone might comment, “I’m betwixt and between being single and in a committed relationship.”

45. Middle ground

This term refers to a position or solution that is neither extreme nor biased, but rather a middle point that satisfies both sides.

For example, “We need to find a middle ground that addresses everyone’s concerns.”
A person might say, “In a political debate, it’s important to seek middle ground instead of polarizing positions.”
In a conversation about parenting styles, someone might comment, “I try to find a middle ground between strict discipline and leniency.”