Halfway

Halfway is a term used to denote a point at an equal distance from two endpoints or an intermediate stage in a process. As an adverb, it describes movement toward or location at the middle: 'We are halfway to the summit.' As an adjective, it describes something located or functioning at the middle, or an intermediate state: 'a halfway measure' or 'a halfway house.' The construction often appears with 'between' or 'through': 'halfway between A and B,' 'halfway through the book.'

Etymology: It is a compound of half and way; attested in Middle English and in use since then. In modern English it is typically spelled as a single word, though historical texts sometimes show variants such as 'half way' or 'half-way.'

Usage notes: halfway often signals incompleteness or a transitional stage; may carry neutral or slightly evaluative nuance depending on context. Common fixed phrases include 'halfway measure' (a partial solution) and 'halfway house' (a transitional residence).

Related terms: midway as a synonym; terms like 'halfway point' or 'halfway mark' for exact location; antonyms include wholly, entirely, at the end.