Fair and square – meaning, origin and usage

The phrase “fair and square” is a common idiom in both UK and American English. You can read on to find out what it means, how the phrase originated, and how it is typically used. We will also cover similar and synonymous words and phrases, which should help with your understanding of the term. Let’s go!

What’s the meaning of the phrase “fair and square”?

When something is described as being “fair and square” this means that it is fair and just. It implies that an outcome is agreeable and acceptable all round.

Sometimes the phrase is used in reference to ground rules that have already been established, although this is not always the case. People often use the phrase

What’s the origin of the phrase “fair and square”?

The rhyming phrase “fair and square” is a particularly old one, dating back as far as the 1600’s. The phrase was initially used in reference to sports and contexts, and it is still often used in this context today.

How you can use the phrase “fair and square” (with examples)

The phrase “fair and square” is suitable in polite company, but different language may be required for legal documents.

Simply put, the phrase “fair and square” can be used anywhere where you would normally use words such as “fair,” “just,” and “honest.” People often prefer to use more than one word, such as “fair and square,” rather than one word alone because it provides a stronger emphasis.

People often use the phrase “fair and square” to say that they have been fair. However, other parties may not necessarily feel the same way. To check that someone feels that an agreement or decision is fair and just and acceptable to them, you can ask them if they feel it is “fair and square.” Here are some examples of the phrase in use in sentences:

• I won that competition fair and square!
• What do you think? Fair and square? Or do you have any suggestions or objections?
• No, the ref was right to give the red card. It’s fair and square.

What can you say in place of “fair and square”?

Sometimes, you may be conversing with someone who may be unfamiliar with English idioms, in which case you may prefer to use an alternative phrase in its place.There are several English phrases that can often be used synonymously as an alternative to the phrase “fair and square.” Here are some examples for your perusal:

• That’s fair and just
• That’s fair all round
• That’s more than fair
• Yes, that’s adequate
• That’s fair I suppose
• I can’t say fairer than that
• That’s a fair deal
• Good compromise
• It was justified

Final word

So, to summarise, the phrase “fair and square” can be used anywhere where you’d normally use words such as “fair” and “just”. People often prefer to say “fair and square” rather than simply “fair” in order to generate a greater emphasis to the point they are making. The phrase dates back to the 1600’s but is still very much in use today.