Squarely

//ˈskwɛɹ.li// adv

adv ·Uncommon ·College level

Definitions

Adverb
  1. 1
    In the shape of a square; at right angles.
  2. 2
    Firmly and solidly. also, figuratively

    "“I stand squarely behind my decision,” he said, adding that he would not “shrink from my share of responsibility for where we are today.”"

  3. 3
    In a direct, straightforward and honest manner. figuratively

    "But Republicans placed the blame squarely on Mr. Biden."

Adverb
  1. 1
    with firmness and conviction; without compromise wordnet
  2. 2
    firmly and solidly wordnet
  3. 3
    in a square shape wordnet
  4. 4
    directly and without evasion; not roundabout wordnet
  5. 5
    in a straight direct way wordnet

Synonyms

All synonyms
absolutelyaccuratelybangcorrectlydeaddefinitely

Example

More examples

"That does not mean we should ignore sources of tension. Indeed, it suggests the opposite: we must face these tensions squarely."

Etymology

From square + -ly. First use appears c. 1557 in the writings of Robert Recorde.

Related phrases

fairly and squarelyright angle

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Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.