on the square
on the square
1. Candidly honest or transparent; fair and straightforward; correct or in agreement. I know everyone distrusts car mechanics, but I feel like the guy I go to has always been on the square with me.
2. Literally, at or forming right angles (as or of a square). Make sure the foundation is laid out on the square before you pour the concrete.
See also: on, square
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
on the square
Honestly and openly, as in Our dealings with them have always been on the square. This expression literally means "at right angles." Similarly the antonym out of square, literally signifying "not at right angles," figuratively means "not in agreement" or "irregular." For example, The lab's report is out of square with the x-ray. The first recorded use of this term was in 1542.
See also: on, square
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
on the square
mainly AMERICANIf someone is on the square, they are being totally honest with you. No one knows for sure who is, and who is not, on the square. Note: This expression probably comes from the use of a square, a measuring device used to check that a right angle is completely accurate.
See also: on, square
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
on the square
1 honest; straightforward. 2 having membership of the Freemasons. 2 1997 Guardian One non-Masonic officer…claims he was moved sideways… and subsequently he discovered that the corrupt officers and the commander were all ‘on the square’.
See also: on, square
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
on the square
1. Mathematics At right angles.
2. Honestly and openly: has always dealt on the square.
See also: on, square
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
- shoot straight
- shoot square
- make an honest buck
- earn an honest buck
- an honest buck
- honest to a fault
- an honest broker
- straight shooter
- straight shooter, a
- honest to God