squarely

[skwair-lee]

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.

squarely

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of squarely¹

First recorded in 1550–60; square + -ly

Example Sentences

In two games t,he lack of ambition to improve the team has boomeranged back and hit the club squarely between the eyes.

From BBC

For much of the summer, Freeman had been squarely in that group, as well.

From Los Angeles Times

As a result, when there is criticism, it tends to be directed squarely at him, rather than being attributed to a failure of governance systems.

From BBC

He also said he worries that online calls to “sit out” will lead to more people disengaging from resistance and politics altogether in favor of placing the onus squarely on white Americans.

From Salon

Cobia said Newsom is “squarely focused” on helping Democrats win back the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• justly 
• objectively