fair and square
Meaning
In an honest, legal, and straightforward way, without cheating or unfair advantage.
Origin
Recorded from the 1600s. “Fair” means honest/just; “square” came to mean straightforward and honest (possibly from a carpenter’s square suggesting right angles/true alignment).
Notes
Positive tone stressing honesty, legitimacy, and no cheating. Common in contests, business, or disputes; fairly informal but acceptable in most contexts. Can be used ironically.
Examples
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She won the match fair and square, so nobody could complain about the result.
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I paid for the laptop fair and square, and I have the receipt to prove it.
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He admitted he was caught fair and square and apologized to the team.
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We want to compete fair and square, without any tricks or shortcuts.
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If you can beat me fair and square, I’ll gladly buy you dinner.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used adverbially: “win it fair and square,” “play fair and square.” Fairly fixed; order is fixed (“fair and square,” not *“square and fair”). No article needed.
Synonyms
- honestly
- fairly
- legitimately
- squarely
- by the book
Antonyms
- by fair means or foul
- by any means necessary
- unfairly
- dishonestly
- by cheating