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squarely

From Wiktionary, the free dictionary

English

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Etymology

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From square +‎ -ly. First use appears c. 1557 in the writings of Robert Recorde.

Pronunciation

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  • (UK) IPA(key): /ˈskwɛə(ɹ).li/
  • (US) IPA(key): /ˈskwɛɹ.li/
  • Audio (US):(file)
  • Rhymes: -ɛə(ɹ)li
  • Hyphenation: square‧ly

Adverb

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squarely (comparative more squarely, superlative most squarely)

  1. (geometry) In the shape of a square; at right angles.
  2. (also figurative) Firmly and solidly.
    • 2021 August 16, Michael D. Shear, David E. Sanger, quoting Joe Biden, “Biden stands behind Afghan withdrawal, despite ‘hard and messy’ final days.”, in The New York Times[1], →ISSN:
      “I stand squarely behind my decision,” he said, adding that he would not “shrink from my share of responsibility for where we are today.”
  3. (figurative) In a direct, straightforward and honest manner.
    • 2021 August 16, Michael D. Shear, David E. Sanger, “Biden stands behind Afghan withdrawal, despite ‘hard and messy’ final days.”, in The New York Times[2], →ISSN:
      But Republicans placed the blame squarely on Mr. Biden.

Derived terms

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Translations

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