fair and square
Phrase (Adverbial/Adjectival): - In a just and honest manner: "fair and square" means done according to the rules, without cheating, deceit, or unfair advantage. It emphasizes that an outcome or action is completely legitimate and equitable.
- (He won honestly, following all rules.)
- (The transaction was transparent and just.)
"to win/lose fair and square": to achieve victory or accept defeat in a manner that is entirely proper.
- She beat me fair and square in the chess match. (She defeated me with no cheating.)
"to do something fair and square": to perform an action with complete honesty.
- We divided the profits fair and square among all partners. (We shared the money equitably.)
Fairness (n): the quality of being just, impartial, or honest.
- The fairness of the referee's decision was questioned. (The impartiality of the decision was doubted.)
Squareness (n): the quality of being straightforward or honest.
- His squareness in business dealings earned him trust. (His honesty was widely recognized.)
- Honestly: in a truthful and fair way.
- Justly: in a manner consistent with what is morally right.
- By the book: strictly according to rules or laws.
Fair and square (as a fixed expression): used to emphasize that something is done without any trickery.
- The referee confirmed the goal was fair and square. (The goal was valid and not against the rules.)
Play fair: to act in a just and honest manner.
- Always play fair, even when no one is watching. (Always be honest in your actions.)
No common phrasal verbs are formed with "fair and square," as it is a fixed adverbial phrase.