Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Directly and without evasion; in a straightforward manner: Used to describe dealing with something honestly and directly, without avoiding it.
   • Firmly and solidly; in a direct line or position: Used to describe a physical impact or position that is direct and centered.
   • Exactly or precisely: Used to indicate something is directly aligned or facing something else.
   • In a square shape: Used to describe something that is shaped like a square or has right angles.

Usage Examples

• Dealing with issues directly:
  • She addressed the criticism squarely.
  • We must face this challenge squarely.
• Physical impact or position:
  • He hit the ball squarely with the bat.
  • She placed the box squarely in the center of the room.
• Direct alignment:
  • He looked me squarely in the eye.
  • The car ran squarely into the fence.
• Shape:
  • The timber was cut squarely at both ends.

Advanced Usage

• "to face something squarely": to confront a problem or issue directly and honestly.
  • The company needs to face its financial difficulties squarely.
• "to place/put something squarely on/upon": to assign responsibility or blame directly to someone or something.
  • The report places the blame squarely on management.
• "to fall squarely on": (of a responsibility or duty) to belong completely to a particular person or group.
  • The final decision falls squarely on the committee.

Variants and Related Words

• Square (adjective, adverb, noun, verb): Having the shape of a square; fair and honest; to make something square.
  • He gave me a square answer. (adjective: honest)
  • Make sure the frame is square. (adjective: having right angles)
• Foursquare (adverb, adjective): Firm and resolute; in a solid, square formation.
  • He stood foursquare against the proposal. (adverb: resolutely)

Synonyms

• Directly: in a direct way.
• Forthrightly: directly and without hesitation.
• Straightforwardly: in a direct and honest way.
• Firmly: with little possibility of movement; securely.
• Solidly: in a firm and stable manner.

Related Phrases

• Fair and square: honestly and according to the rules.
  • He won the match fair and square.
• A square deal: a fair and honest agreement or transaction.
  • All we ask for is a square deal.

Notes on Meaning

The core meanings of squarely relate to directness and precision. Whether describing a physical action (hitting a ball), a manner of speaking (addressing an issue), or an abstract concept (assigning blame), it implies a lack of deviation, evasion, or ambiguity. It conveys a sense of being centered, honest, and exact.

Adverb

1. with firmness and conviction; without compromise
   • he stood foursquare for religious liberty and toleration- C.G.Bowers
   • dealt straightforwardly with all issues
2. in a square shape
   • a squarely cut piece of paper
   • folded the sheet of paper square
3. firmly and solidly
   • hit the ball squarely
   • the bat met the ball squarely
   • planted his great bulk square before his enemy
4. in a straight direct way
   • looked him squarely in the eye
   • ran square into me
5. directly and without evasion; not roundabout
   • to face a problem squarely
   • the responsibility lies squarely with them
   • spoke forthright (or forthrightly) and to the point