Pronunciation: [hˈɑːf fˈe͡ə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "half fare" is straightforward. The first syllable in "half" is pronounced with a short "æ" sound as in "cat," followed by the "f" sound. The second syllable in "fare" is pronounced with a long "ɛ" sound as in "air," followed by the "r" sound. Together, the correct pronunciation is "hælf fɛər." This term is commonly used in transportation, where it suggests a reduced price for a ticket or admission.
Half fare refers to a reduced cost or discounted price that is exactly half of the regular or full fare for a particular service, ticket, or journey. It typically applies to public transportation systems, such as buses, trains, ferries, or airplanes, where passengers are charged a fee to travel from one destination to another.
The concept of half fare assumes that the original or standard fare is a certain value, and the discounted half fare is exactly half of this amount. This reduced rate may be available to specific groups of people, such as children, students, senior citizens, or individuals with disabilities, as a means to make transportation more affordable and accessible for those who may be economically or physically disadvantaged.
In many instances, passengers eligible for half fare must provide proof of identification or membership to avail of this discount. For instance, a student may have to show a valid student ID card, while a senior citizen may need to present an ID confirming their age. It is worth noting that the specific rules and requirements for obtaining half fare may vary depending on the transportation provider, the location, and the circumstances.
Half fare promotes inclusivity and enables a wider demographic to access public transportation by significantly reducing the financial burden associated with traveling. By offering this discounted option, transportation authorities and operators aim to encourage greater ridership and ensure that transportation remains equitable for all individuals in society.
The word "half fare" is composed of two separate elements:
1. Half: This word comes from the Old English "half" which means "one of two equal parts of a whole". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "halbaz" meaning "half" or "side". This can be further traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "ḱel-" or "ḱl̥-" which means "to cut" or "divide".
2. Fare: The word "fare" in this context refers to the price or charge for a journey, usually in transportation. It comes from the Old English word "fær" or "fere", which means "journey" or "passage". This can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "fērus" meaning "passage" or "journey".
