square away
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb (transitive, phrasal verb): 1. To put in order; to arrange neatly or settle completely. This means to organize things that are messy or to finish dealing with tasks and details so that everything is tidy and resolved.
Usage
- This phrasal verb is used to describe the act of organizing physical spaces or completing and settling matters.
- It is often used in the passive voice ("to be squared away") to describe a state of readiness or completion.
- It is commonly used in both everyday and professional contexts.
Examples
- "I need to square away the files on my desk before I leave." (Organize the physical files)
- "Let's square away the final details of the contract this afternoon." (Settle or finalize the details)
- "Her paperwork is all squared away, so she can start the new job on Monday." (Her administrative tasks are completely settled)
- "The troops were squared away and ready for inspection." (The soldiers were perfectly ordered and prepared)
Advanced Usage
- To be squared away: This common phrase describes a person, place, or situation that is well-organized, prepared, or has all matters settled.
- Example: "Don't worry about the logistics; everything is squared away for the conference."
Variants and Related Words
- Square (verb): As a standalone verb, "to square" can mean to settle a debt or an argument, or to make something agree or conform.
- Example: "I'll square the bill with you later." or "His story doesn't square with the facts."
Synonyms
- Tidy up
- Organize
- Arrange
- Settle
- Finalize
- Sort out
- Put in order
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Tidy up: To make a place neat by putting things in their proper places. (Focuses more on cleaning and neatness).
- Example: "Please tidy up the living room."
- Wrap up: To finish or complete something, especially a task or event.
- Example: "Let's wrap up this meeting by 5 PM."
Related Idioms
- Get one's ducks in a row: To get organized and prepared. This idiom is very similar in meaning to "get squared away."
- Example: "Before the investor meeting, we need to get our ducks in a row."
Verb
- put (things or places) in order
- Tidy up your room!