above board
Meaning
Honest, open, and legal; not secretive or corrupt.
Origin
From card and gambling games: keeping hands and dealings “above the board” (visible on the table) signaled fair play, not cheating by hiding moves under the table.
Notes
Emphasizes transparency and honesty, often about money, deals, or procedures. Can imply suspicion exists and you’re reassuring others it’s all legitimate.
Examples
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The procurement process was kept above board by publishing every bid and decision.
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If we keep the funding arrangements above board, no one can accuse us of favoritism.
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She insisted that all expenses be submitted with receipts to ensure everything stayed above board.
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The company hired an external auditor to confirm its accounting practices were above board.
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Their relationship was completely above board, even though rumors kept circulating.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as an adjective or complement: “an above-board deal,” “keep it above board,” “everything was above board.” Typically hyphenated before a noun (above-board).
Synonyms
- honest
- transparent
- legitimate
- above-board
- open
- straightforward
Antonyms
- underhanded
- shady
- illegal
- corrupt
- dishonest