level playing field

American  

noun

1. a state of equality; an equal opportunity.

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level playing field British  

noun

1. a situation in which none of the competing parties has an advantage at the outset of a competitive activity

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Etymology

Origin of level playing field

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

In many cases, the data was industry relativized so that each company could be judged against all of the others on a level playing field.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

But we show that if you could identify it, you’d have a level playing field to compare humans, invertebrates, and computers.

From Science Daily • Jun. 5, 2026

I demonstrate mathematically that with an otherwise level playing field, when one group is larger, its members systematically enjoy more connections—along with the opportunities that flow through them.

From Slate • May 22, 2026

As far as Europe is concerned, Mercedes isn’t afraid of competition but wants a level playing field.

From Barron's • May 18, 2026

These midsize firms “are getting a more level playing field, which they were denied before,” said Jerry.

From "The World Is Flat" by Thomas L. Friedman