まずまず

• Reading: まずまず
• Romaji: mazumazu
• Pronunciation: /ma.zɯ.ma.zɯ/

Meaning

Tolerable; passable; so-so; not bad. Indicates an adequate but unremarkable result.

An adverb/adjective indicating a level that is satisfactory but not outstanding. More positive than まあまあ in some contexts, suggesting the result met basic expectations. Often used to evaluate performance, weather, health, or outcomes: まずまずの出来 (passable result), まずまずの天気 (decent weather). Carries a pragmatic, accepting tone.

Examples

1. 試験の結果はまずまずだった。 The exam results were decent.
2. 今日の天気はまずまずだから散歩に行こう。 The weather today is decent enough, so let's go for a walk.
3. 新商品の売れ行きはまずまず好調だ。 Sales of the new product are doing reasonably well.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, evaluation, sports

Tone: pragmatic

Origin & History

Reduplication of まず (mazu, first/for now), originally meaning 'first of all' but evolved to express a tentative, measured assessment — 'for now, this will do.'

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal