fair game

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fair game" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is usually used to indicate that something is considered acceptable and allowed. For example: "Since the information is readily available online, I think it's fair game for us to use it in our report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Anything is fair game.

The New York Times - Sports

He is fair game.

Independent

Both are fair game.

The New York Times - Books

Fair Game, Gretchen Morgenson.

The New York Times

I'm fair game".

The New York Times - Books

All is fair game.

The Economist

Gretchen Morgenson, Fair Game.

The New York Times

Moderators became fair game.

The New York Times

It's fair game".

The New Yorker

Fair Game by Gretchen Morgenson.

The New York Times

Everything else was fair game.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fair game", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to something being a legitimate target, permissible action, or acceptable subject of criticism.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "fair game" implies ethical justification. While it suggests something is permissible, it doesn't necessarily mean it's morally right.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "fair game" is as a noun phrase, often serving as a predicate nominative or direct object to indicate that something is a legitimate or permissible target. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples of this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fair game" is a common expression used to indicate that something or someone is a legitimate or permissible target for criticism, scrutiny, or pursuit. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media contexts. While it signifies permissibility, it is crucial to remember that "fair game" does not inherently imply ethical justification.

When using the phrase, ensure the context is clear about whether you are referring to legitimate targets, permissible actions, or acceptable subjects for scrutiny. Be cautious about assuming ethical justification and consider the potential implications of declaring something or someone "fair game".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legitimate target

Focuses on the legitimacy of targeting something.

acceptable target

Stresses that something is considered an acceptable target.

permissible action

Highlights the permissibility aspect of an action.

within the rules

Highlights that actions are compliant with established rules.

open season

Emphasizes that something is now vulnerable or freely available.

up for grabs

Suggests that something is available for anyone to take or claim.

legally allowed

Indicates that something is within legal boundaries.

liable to criticism

Implies a high chance of receiving criticism.

subject to scrutiny

Emphasizes openness to examination and criticism.

available for use

Focuses on the availability of something for use.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is considered "fair game"?

When something is described as "fair game", it means it is considered an acceptable target for criticism, scrutiny, or action. It suggests that there are no restrictions or protections in place.

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

You can use "fair game" to describe a situation where something is open to legitimate targeting. For example, "Once he announced his candidacy, his past became "subject to scrutiny" and considered fair game by the media".

Are there any synonyms for "fair game" that I can use?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "legitimate target", "permissible action", or "open season" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to consider something "fair game"?

While "fair game" indicates permissibility, it doesn't inherently imply ethical justification. Consider the ethical implications before deeming something "fair game". Just because something is permissible doesn't make it morally right.