square

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "square" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used as a noun referencing an object with four sides of equal length, as a verb meaning to shape or make something into a square form, or as an adjective meaning even or balanced. Example: "The cookies were cut into perfect squares with a sharp knife."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Weighing almost six tonnes and measuring 4 metres (13ft) square, the giant slab of milk chocolate has broken the record for the world's largest chocolate bar.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I blame you for my resulting square eyes but it was entirely worth it ;-) Anyway, my question is about music.

The Guardian

Police trucks with mounted water cannon watch over "freedom square", the name given to an open field in downtown Harare by MDC supporters who held what was described as the country's biggest ever election rally there.

The Guardian

Tucked away under ancient arches just by the bustling San Bartolomeo square, the Rosticceria is basically an old-fashioned self-service cafeteria, dishing up excellent and inexpensive comfort food - a "primo" for €6, followed by roast chicken, or "baccala mantecato", the traditional creamy salt cod.

The Guardian - Travel

His answers were fluent and when he had the chance to square up directly against David Cameron he was forceful.

The Guardian - Opinion

"She wrote letters and made a chart with rows of square boxes representing homes in our neighbourhood.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The first ball of Flintoff's next over yielded eight – a hip-high full toss which was deposited over backward square-leg by Varun Chopra for six.

The Guardian - Sport

The Living Room on Glavni Square, one of the three main squares, serves guest ales from breweries such as Reservoir Dogs in western Slovenia.

The Guardian - Travel

Jamie Cripps kicked five goals; the best a flying volley from the goal-square in the third term to put the Eagles ahead.

The Guardian - Sport

In October, Freeman carried out a protest by standing on a Winston Churchill statue in Parliament Square in London in a 28-hour standoff with police.

The Guardian

Caroline Craig and Sophie Missing are authors of The Little Book of Lunch Square Pegg).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "square" in technical contexts (mathematics, engineering), ensure precise definitions and units are consistently applied to avoid ambiguity. For instance, differentiate between "square feet" and "square meters" in measurements.

Common error

Avoid using "square" vaguely. For example, don't use "square" to describe a shape if it's actually a rectangle. Choose a more precise term, especially in technical or descriptive writing, to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "square" varies depending on the context. It can act as a noun, referring to a geometric shape or a public area; as an adjective, describing something shaped like a square or aligned at right angles; or as a verb, meaning to multiply by itself or to align. Ludwig AI provides examples of all these usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Sport

12%

Travel

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Lifestyle

8%

Opinion

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "square" is a versatile term with varied applications in English, functioning as a noun, adjective, and verb. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct. It is frequently encountered in "News & Media", "Sport", and "Travel" contexts. Understanding its multiple meanings is essential to avoid ambiguity. When writing, be mindful of the specific context to ensure clarity and accuracy. Avoid using "square" loosely; instead, choose the most precise term for your intended meaning. This ensures effective communication and avoids potential misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

squared

Indicates that a number has been multiplied by itself, specifically related to the mathematical meaning of "square".

perfect square

Specifies a number that is the product of an integer with itself, adding precision to the mathematical sense.

town square

Refers specifically to a public open space in a town or city, differing from a general square shape.

plaza

Similar to "square" when referring to a public area, but implies a more formal or urban setting.

grid

Focuses on the arrangement of cells in a structured pattern, similar to a square grid.

block

Can refer to a city block, which is often square or rectangular, providing a spatial context.

orthogonal

As an adjective, describes something having right angles, emphasizing the geometric property of a square.

hash symbol

Refers to the symbol '#' which is sometimes called a "square" on telephones and other devices.

level

When used to describe fairness or equality, it shares a conceptual link with being "square" in one's dealings.

fair

Denotes impartiality or justness, resembling the concept of "square dealing" in a moral or ethical context.

FAQs

How can I use "square" as a verb in a sentence?

As a verb, "square" can mean to multiply a number by itself (e.g., "Square the root of 9 to obtain 3") or to align something at a right angle (e.g., "Square the frame before attaching the backing").

What are some synonyms for "square" when referring to a public space?

Depending on the context, you can use synonyms such as "plaza", "piazza", or "town square" to refer to a public open space.

What does it mean when someone is described as "square"?

When someone is described as "square", it typically means they are considered conventional, old-fashioned, or out of touch with current trends. It implies a lack of excitement or willingness to deviate from traditional norms.

Is it correct to use "square" to describe something that is rectangular?

While both are four-sided shapes, a "square" has four equal sides and four right angles. A rectangle has four right angles, but only opposite sides are equal. Using "square" to describe a rectangle is technically incorrect.