square deal

USAGE SUMMARY

"square deal" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where everyone is treated fairly, or receives an equal share of resources. For example, "The purpose of the organization is to ensure everyone receives a square deal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

8 30 p.m. 8) SQUARE DEAL All Market Square restaurants have outdoor seating, and most evenings find amateur pickers and singers performing in the square, lending the whole space the feeling of a giant, impromptu party.

The New York Times - Travel

It's a square deal.

The New York Times - Arts

Village is a square deal.

The New York Times - Food

Or they needed jobs like the ones he could give them, a square deal.

The Economist

"We stand for decency in government & a square deal fortaxpayers, he said.

The New Yorker

There's a square deal implicit in the idea of a neighborhood restaurant.

The New York Times - Food

After the second world war, the vets got a square deal from the government.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"This is one additional tool to help the businesses and residents of Pioneer Square deal with the problem of chronic public inebriation," Mr. Nickels said.

The New York Times

Insignia, which also represented Andersen in the Times Square deal, was forced to return a couple of million dollars in commissions to Boston Properties, according to real estate executives.

The New York Times

Naturally, what Romney is offering is not a Fair Deal, a New Deal, or even a TR-like Square Deal. TR-like Square Deal

Huffington Post

Near the end of 1994, the owner of the Square Deal, a larger, rival newspaper, died.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about historical events or political policies, particularly those associated with Theodore Roosevelt, using "square deal" adds historical context and resonates with readers familiar with that era.

Common error

Avoid using "square deal" to suggest that everyone gets the best outcome; instead, use it to convey that everyone gets a fair outcome, even if it's not ideal for all. It is not synonymous with 'perfect outcome'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "square deal" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as a direct object or predicate nominative. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is used to signify fairness and equitable treatment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Science

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "square deal" is a phrase denoting fairness and equitable treatment, often used in news, business, and historical contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While it may have roots in early 20th-century American politics, particularly associated with Theodore Roosevelt's policies, the phrase remains relevant for conveying the importance of impartiality and justice in various situations. When using "square deal", writers should focus on conveying a sense of equity rather than implying a perfect outcome for all parties involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fair shake

Replaces "deal" with "shake", maintaining the sense of equitable treatment, but with a slightly more informal tone.

equitable arrangement

Substitutes both words with more formal synonyms, emphasizing the fairness of the agreement.

just terms

Focuses on the fairness of the conditions or stipulations involved.

honest bargain

Emphasizes the integrity and straightforwardness of the agreement.

impartial agreement

Highlights the lack of bias in the arrangement.

fair compromise

Indicates a balanced resolution where each party concedes something.

evenhanded treatment

Shifts the focus to the fairness of the treatment received.

level playing field

Uses a metaphor to describe a situation of equal opportunity.

fair opportunity

Highlights the availability of an equal chance for all parties.

equitable solution

Refers to a resolution that is fair and just to all parties involved.

FAQs

What does "square deal" mean?

A "square deal" means fair and equitable treatment or an honest and straightforward agreement. It implies that all parties involved are treated justly.

How did Theodore Roosevelt use the term "square deal"?

Theodore Roosevelt used the term "Square Deal" to describe his domestic policy agenda, which aimed to protect consumers, control corporations, and conserve natural resources. He sought to create a "fair compromise" between businesses and workers.

What are some synonyms for "square deal"?

Some synonyms for "square deal" include "fair shake", "equitable arrangement", "just terms", and "honest bargain". These phrases all convey a sense of fairness and impartiality.

Is "square deal" still commonly used today?

Yes, "square deal" is still used today, though it may be considered somewhat old-fashioned. It remains a recognizable and effective way to communicate the importance of fairness and equity in various contexts. You can encounter it often in "news and media".