Synonyms

fair shake

American

noun

Informal.

an equitable opportunity or treatment.

The judges promised that every entrant in the contest would get a fair shake.

Etymology

Origin of fair shake

An Americanism dating back to 1820–30

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa shared earlier this week that she hopes to give Hegseth a fair shake away from the noise of reports in the media.

From Salon • Dec. 15, 2024

For all that he and other merchants have contributed to local culture and commerce, and the city treasury, he says he wants a fair shake in return.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 24, 2024

We need a fair shake because this is the biggest fight in heavyweight history.

From BBC • May 16, 2024

“You want your client to have a fair shake here, just as DA does. I will do my levelheaded best to make sure that happens.”

From Slate • Apr. 18, 2024

Already I was determined, I guess, to give Africa a fair shake.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023