address it squarely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "address it squarely" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of dealing with an issue directly and honestly. Example: "In our meeting, we need to address it squarely to ensure that all concerns are properly handled."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A misappropriation case up for appeal in the Second Circuit, SEC v. Payton, raises this issue again and presents the opportunity for the court to address it squarely and hold that a personal benefit is not required for liability in tipping case based on the misappropriation theory.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

He turned Franklin D. Roosevelt's famous first inaugural address around and aimed it squarely at Mr. Gore, charging that "the only thing he has to offer is fear itself".

The New York Times

That one of Japan's mightiest companies has moved decisively to address its problems squarely in hopes of rebuilding a sound and profitable business in the future has excited investors not only about Nissan but also about other parts of Japan Inc.

The New York Times

In its crucial ruling tonight in the case that could decide the presidential election, Florida's Supreme Court decided a number of the legal issues that have been raised here in favor of Vice President Al Gore, but it squarely addressed a number of questions and issues.

The New York Times

It squarely addresses one of our biggest worries: the avalanche of plastic that cascades into the ocean every year.

Huffington Post

And the responsibility for the whole fiasco lands squarely on the shoulders of the executive team, many of whom might not have much, if any, of the deep technical background required to address it.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

They must face it squarely.

Huffington Post

And then, addressing him squarely across the ten yards that separated their benches, she said, "I am not frightened of you.

The New Yorker

It takes the worst stereotype about Italian-Americans, and plants itself squarely in it for 86 episodes, even directly addressing it on several occasions throughout the series.

Vice

Thank you for raising this important question, which we certainly wish to address squarely and have it come across clearly in the manuscript.

eLife

In office just over five months, Obama has offered what he has called a clear-eyed appraisal of the world's troubles, at times implicating allies such as Israel and his own country in failing to address them squarely.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "address it squarely" when you want to emphasize the importance of dealing with an issue directly, honestly, and without hesitation. It conveys a sense of responsibility and a commitment to finding a solution.

Common error

Don't use vague language or euphemisms when you need to "address it squarely". Be direct and clear in your communication to avoid confusion or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "address it squarely" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a direct and honest approach to dealing with a problem or issue. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through its analysis of various source examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "address it squarely" means to tackle an issue directly and honestly. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct, although relatively rare in usage. It is best suited for neutral contexts such as news reporting, academic discussions and professional settings. The phrase emphasizes a responsible and decisive approach to problem-solving. Related phrases include "confront it directly" and "deal with it head-on". It's important to use direct language when you need to "address it squarely", avoiding vague language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Confront it directly

Emphasizes a direct and potentially challenging approach.

Deal with it head-on

Suggests facing the issue with determination and without avoidance.

Tackle it forthrightly

Implies dealing with the issue in a straightforward and honest manner.

Grapple with it directly

Suggests engaging with the issue in a serious and determined way.

Face it unflinchingly

Highlights courage and resolve in confronting the issue.

Address it forthright

A more concise version, keeping the straightforward essence.

Take it head on

Slightly more informal, suggesting a direct confrontation.

Confront the matter directly

Emphasizes the 'matter' at hand.

Engage with it directly

Emphasizes involvement and interaction with the issue.

Acknowledge it directly

Focuses on recognizing and admitting the existence of the issue.

FAQs

How can I use "address it squarely" in a sentence?

You can use "address it squarely" to emphasize the importance of confronting an issue directly and honestly. For example, "The board needs to "address it squarely" to resolve the ongoing crisis".

What does "address it squarely" mean?

"Address it squarely" means to deal with an issue directly, honestly, and without avoiding the difficult aspects.

What's a more formal way to say "address it squarely"?

A more formal alternative would be "confront the issue directly" or "tackle the matter forthrightly".

What can I say instead of "address it squarely"?

You can use alternatives like "confront it directly", "deal with it head-on", or "tackle it forthrightly" depending on the context.