On the Level, To Be 📏
Definition: Honest, straightforward, and sincere. An American colloquialism originating in the late nineteenth century, this term may have taken root in Freemasonry, where the carpenter’s level symbolizes integrity. Ngaio Marsh used it in a 1936 novel (Death in Ecstasy), “He’s on the level all right.”
🎭 Related and Similar Terms:
- Above board 🤷♂️: Legitimate and honest without deception.
- Straight arrow ➡️: A person who is straightforward and honest.
- Up-front 🗣️: Open and honest, not hiding anything.
🏡 Proverbs and Expressions:
- Truth will out 🥇: No matter how long it takes, the truth will eventually be revealed.
- Honesty is the best policy 🤝: It’s always better to be honest, even if the truth is unpleasant.
📚 Recommended Literature, Books, and Movies:
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: A novel portraying the integrity of Atticus Finch.
- “The Honest Truth” by Dan Gemeinhart: A poignant tale of a boy’s journey to find himself both inside and out.
- “Catch Me If You Can” (2002): A film about about deception and the journey to confront it with the truth.
🌟 Inspirational Quotes:
- “Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.” - Thomas Jefferson
- “No legacy is so rich as honesty.” - William Shakespeare
🎼 Relevant Songs:
- “Honesty” by Billy Joel
- “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper
🤓 Quizzes
### Which of these terms is synonymous with 'on the level'?
- [x] Above board
- [ ] Crooked as a dog's hind leg
- [ ] Drawing a longbow
- [ ] Stab in the dark
> **Explanation:** "Above board" means legitimate and honest without any deceit, closely aligning with 'on the level'.
### Which phrase means someone is straightforward?
- [x] Straight arrow
- [ ] Bending the truth
- [ ] Pulling your leg
- [ ] Taking you for a ride
> **Explanation:** A "straight arrow" is someone who is honest and straightforward, opposite to misleading or deceitful tactics.
### True or False: Being 'on the level' means being deceptive.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False! To be 'on the level' is to be honest, sincere, and straightforward, thus the opposite of being deceptive.
🌱 An Inspirational Farewell:
“Walk tall with your integrity at heart and your honesty at soul; for being on the level will guide you through the mazes of life, ensuring the true you shines brightly even through the darkest hours.” - Verity Truthfinder
🕊️ Happy reading and living with integrity! 🕊️
