squarely

American  

[skwair-lee] / ˈskwɛər li /

adverb

1. in a square shape, form, or manner.

2. directly; without evasion; in a straight or straightforward manner.

   to face a problem squarely.

3. in an honest or open manner; fairly.

4. in a clear manner; unequivocally.

   Our faith is based squarely on a commitment to the rights of all human beings.

5. firmly; so as to come into direct contact.

   The ball struck him squarely in the face.

6. in the exact place that is specified; exactly.

   The house sat squarely in the middle of the park.

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squarely British  

/ ˈskwɛəlɪ /

adverb

1. in a direct way; straight

   he hit me squarely on the nose

2. in an honest, frank, and just manner

3. at right angles

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Etymology

Origin of squarely

First recorded in 1550–60; square + -ly

Example Sentences

But choppy hiring conditions persist, a dynamic that will likely keep the unemployment rate squarely in focus and signals a more muted jobs growth environment this year.

From Barron's

But choppy hiring conditions persist, a dynamic that will likely keep the unemployment rate squarely in focus and signals a more muted jobs growth environment this year.

From Barron's

“The United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, and Nordic neighbors such as Sweden, Finland, and Norway all fall squarely within this range. Denmark represents the low-water mark.”

From Barron's

The song splits the difference between atmospheric trap heaven and hardstyle hell, placing you squarely in a warehouse mosh pit.

From Los Angeles Times

If the relevant market is defined as streaming services, then a Netflix-HBO Max combination sits squarely in the danger zone.

From Barron's

Related Words

• justly
• objectively