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

1. put (things or places) in order
   • Tidy up your room!