💡 Definition:
Fair and square - Just and unequivocal. This expression, recorded since the early seventeenth century, owes its appeal to its rhyme and has survived despite its tautology (“square” here means the same as “fair,” surviving in such phrases as “a square deal”).
👨🎓 Historical Reference: “You are fair and square in all your dealings,” wrote William Wycherley in The Gentleman Dancing Master (1673).
🤯 Diving Deeper:
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Synonyms:
- Evenhanded
- Honest
- Candid
- Straightforward
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Antonyms:
- Unfair
- Dishonest
- Unjust
- Deceitful
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Similar Terms & Proverbs:
- A square deal
- On the level
- Playing fair
- Honest as the day is long
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Quotes & Humor:
- “If you want fair and square, take geometry class!” 📐
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Related Expressions:
- To play fair
- Level playing field
- Keeping one’s nose clean
📚 Suggested Literature:
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Books:
- The Honest Truth About Dishonesty by Dan Ariely
- The Art of Fairness: The Power of Decency in a World Turned Mean by David Bodanis
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Songs:
- “Fair Play” by Van Morrison
- “Honesty” by Billy Joel
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Movies:
- A Few Good Men
- Erin Brockovich
🧐 Educational and Thought-Provoking:
Fair and square reflects both simplicity and profoundness in human interactions. It’s a reminder that integrity shouldn’t require flowery language—transparency will always rhyme best.
📃👋 Final Thought:
Like a magistrate’s sentence, may your words and actions always be fair and square!
🌟 Until next time, keep it tight, right, and bright! Best wishes from Eleanor Wordsworth! 🌟
