a fair shake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fair shake" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express the idea of giving someone a fair chance or opportunity. Example: "Everyone deserves a fair shake when it comes to job opportunities, regardless of their background."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Everyone deserves a fair shake.

The New York Times

Is that a fair shake?

Yale University

Guaranteeing that everyone gets a fair shake.

The Guardian - Opinion

You, too, can get a fair shake.

The New York Times - Sports

"We're a fair shot, and a fair shake.

The New York Times

I always gave their nominees a fair shake".

The New Yorker

How many trust capitalism to give them a fair shake?

The New York Times

"It assures that people get a fair shake at housing".

The New York Times

"We think it hasn't gotten a fair shake".

The New York Times

A fair shake for good, wholesome folk like themselves?

The Washington Post

Pundits argue that Mackey hasn't gotten a fair shake.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fair shake" when you want to convey the idea of someone receiving equitable treatment or opportunity, especially when they might be at a disadvantage.

Common error

Avoid using "a fair shake" to imply guaranteed success; instead, focus on ensuring an equal starting point or unbiased process.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fair shake" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes the concept of receiving equitable treatment or an equal opportunity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fair shake" is a common noun phrase used to advocate for fairness and equal opportunity. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it leans towards informality. When writing, use "a fair shake" to convey the idea of equitable treatment, especially when someone might be at a disadvantage, but avoid implying guaranteed success. Alternatives include "a level playing field" and "an equal opportunity". Remember that this phrase emphasizes giving a reasonable chance and not necessarily ensuring a positive outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an equal opportunity

Emphasizes that everyone should have the same chances, regardless of background.

a fair chance

Highlights the importance of giving everyone a reasonable opportunity to succeed.

a level playing field

Focuses on creating equal conditions for competition or participation.

equal treatment

Stresses the importance of treating everyone the same way, without discrimination.

equitable treatment

Suggests fairness and impartiality in the way someone is handled.

a square deal

Implies honesty and fairness in a transaction or agreement.

just consideration

Focuses on providing thorough and unbiased evaluation.

a fair hearing

Ensures that everyone has the chance to present their case or viewpoint.

impartial assessment

Highlights the need for objective and unbiased evaluation.

reasonable opportunity

Suggests giving someone a feasible chance to achieve something.

FAQs

How can I use "a fair shake" in a sentence?

You can use "a fair shake" to express the idea of giving someone an equal opportunity or treating them justly. For example, "Everyone deserves "a fair shake", regardless of their background".

What is the difference between "a fair shake" and "a fair chance"?

While both phrases convey the idea of equality, "a fair shake" often implies overcoming existing disadvantages, whereas "a fair chance" simply suggests an equal opportunity. "A fair chance" focuses on the opportunity itself, while "a fair shake" encompasses the circumstances surrounding it.

What are some alternatives to "a fair shake"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a level playing field", "an equal opportunity", or "a fair chance".

Is "a fair shake" formal or informal?

"A fair shake" is generally considered to be more informal. In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "equitable treatment" or "just consideration".