it is squarely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is squarely" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is directly or firmly positioned or stated, often in a clear and unequivocal manner. Example: "The responsibility for the project's failure lies squarely with the management team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Today it is squarely the EU's task to maintain it.

The Guardian - Opinion

True to type, it is squarely neo-traditional.

The New York Times

Instead, it is squarely addressed to the present day, striving for the urgency of a headline.

The New Yorker

MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 8 - It is squarely in their sights now, the series that has seemed inevitable for a year.

The New York Times - Sports

"We think it is squarely within the power of the administration to clarify a statutory definition that is vague.

The Guardian

It is about our own safety and our own prosperity – it is squarely in our national interest.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Ultimately, he says he sees a future for Bright*Sun beyond just targeting technology VCs — even if that is where it's squarely focusing its efforts for now.

TechCrunch

Most recently, last month, it was squarely rebuffed in its call for J-Power to raise its annual dividend, to at least 80 yen (78 cents) per share, if not double it to 120 yen ($1.17).

Forbes

The truth is somewhere in the middle —and, as it were, squarely in the muddle.

The New York Times

It's squarely tonal music, not post-Schoenberg in the sense of avoiding functional harmony.

The New York Times - Arts

Whenever a question is not experimentally tractable, not quantifiable, then it's squarely in the domain of philosophy.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is squarely" to clearly and directly assign responsibility or indicate a definitive position. This construction is effective in professional and formal contexts where clarity is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "it is squarely" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase can sound overly formal or stilted in everyday contexts; opt for simpler and more direct language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is squarely" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause, indicating that something is positioned directly or unambiguously. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is squarely" is a grammatically sound and usable expression employed to emphasize directness or lack of ambiguity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts and carries a formal tone, making it suitable for professional writing but less appropriate for casual conversation. Alternative phrases like "it is firmly" or "it is directly" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is firmly

Emphasizes the strength and stability of the positioning or responsibility.

it is directly

Focuses on the absence of intermediaries or indirectness.

it is unambiguously

Highlights the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the situation.

it is unequivocally

Underscores that there is no doubt or question about the matter.

it is undeniably

Stresses the impossibility of denying or refuting the statement.

it is completely

Highlights the thoroughness and totality of the situation.

it is undeniably

Emphasizes the unquestionable nature of the situation or responsibility.

it is incontestably

Highlights that something cannot be disputed.

responsibility lies squarely

This phrase emphasizes where the accountability is positioned, altering the sentence structure.

the burden rests squarely

Focuses on the weight of responsibility, shifting the emphasis slightly.

FAQs

What does "it is squarely" mean?

The phrase "it is squarely" means that something is directly, firmly, or unambiguously positioned or located. It often implies a clear and undeniable placement of responsibility or focus.

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

Use "it is squarely" to emphasize a direct and undeniable connection or responsibility. For example, "The blame for the error lies "squarely with" the project manager."

What are some alternatives to "it is squarely"?

Alternatives include "it is firmly", "it is directly", or "it is unambiguously". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is squarely" formal or informal?

"It is squarely" is generally considered a formal phrase. It is more appropriate for professional writing, news articles, or formal discussions than for casual conversation.