fair play

American  

noun

1. just and honorable treatment, action, or conduct.

   The political campaign was notably lacking in fair play.

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fair play British  

noun

1. an established standard of decency, honesty, etc

2. abidance by this standard

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fair play Idioms  

1. Conformity to established rules; upright conduct and equitable conditions. For example, The coach insists on fair play. Shakespeare used this idiom in King John (5:2): “According to the fair play of the world, let me have audience.” [Late 1500s] Also see turnabout is fair play.

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Etymology

Origin of fair play

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

"I just said, if she plays like this all match and I cannot raise my level, fair play to her. But I was able to raise my level."

From Barron's

"Fair play to him," said Butt.

From BBC

Fair play to Leeds boss Daniel Farke too.

From BBC

Frenk opened the news conference by speaking of the importance of athletics, saying, “Athletics lift up our shared values, such as inclusion, fair play and teamwork, and athletics are the front porch of the university, one of the most visible symbols of what we stand for.”

From Los Angeles Times

“Big rule follower, ha ha. I love me some fairness! Mr. Fair Play!”

From Literature

Related Words

• civil rights
• coordination
• equal opportunity
• fairness
• identity
• impartiality
• parity
• tolerance