square meal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "square meal" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom that is used to describe a full and nutritious meal, as in "I want to make sure my family is eating a square meal at least once a day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

A square meal now seemed like something from another lifetime.

The New York Times

Try making a square meal at Juice Press for less than $40.

The New York Times

As for the square meal — that is what you get here.

The New Yorker

There's some posh pasta and sauce included too, in case they do want a square meal.

Independent

Sitting down for a square meal is a challenge when things are happening all the time.

Independent

That way I know I'll get a square meal in before dinner.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Two square meals a day.

The Guardian - Tech

They receive three square meals a day.

The Guardian

"I am not worried about eating two square meals a day after I retire".

The New York Times

But I only wanted simple but square meals and a little entertainment.

The New York Times - Travel

Still, it's entirely possible to cull three square meals from fiction references.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "square meal" to emphasize the completeness and nutritional value of the meal, particularly when discussing the needs of those performing physical labor or lacking regular access to food.

Common error

Avoid using "square meal" when describing light snacks or meals that lack significant nutritional value. The phrase implies a hearty and wholesome experience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "square meal" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It describes a type of meal, specifically one that is substantial, satisfying, and nutritious. Ludwig examples show it used to describe meals needed for physical labor or after periods of deprivation, aligned with its purpose as a descriptor of nourishment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Reference

9%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "square meal" denotes a substantial, nutritious, and satisfying meal, frequently used in News & Media. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely understood. While "square meal" is common, it is important to use the phrase in appropriate contexts, conveying a meal that is both hearty and wholesome. Alternative options include "substantial meal" and "nutritious meal", offering nuanced ways to describe food. This analysis helps writers use "square meal" effectively, ensuring clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

substantial meal

Emphasizes the quantity and filling nature of the meal.

nutritious meal

Focuses on the health benefits and nutritional value of the meal.

wholesome meal

Highlights the meal's purity and positive impact on well-being.

satisfying meal

Emphasizes the feeling of contentment and fullness after eating.

complete meal

Suggests the meal contains all necessary food groups and nutrients.

full meal

Implies a large and comprehensive serving of food.

hearty meal

Conveys the richness and substantial nature of the meal.

proper meal

Highlights the meal being of acceptable quality and providing sustenance.

regular meal

Focuses on the consistency and routine of eating meals.

good meal

A more general term, indicating a meal of satisfactory quality.

FAQs

How to use "square meal" in a sentence?

You can use "square meal" to describe a substantial and nutritious meal, such as "After a long day of hiking, they were ready for a "square meal"."

What can I say instead of "square meal"?

You can use alternatives like "substantial meal", "nutritious meal", or "wholesome meal" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "square meal" or "squared meal"?

"Square meal" is the correct and idiomatic phrase. "Squared meal" is not a recognized expression.

What's the difference between "square meal" and "good meal"?

While "good meal" simply suggests a meal of satisfactory quality, ""square meal"" implies a more substantial, complete, and nourishing meal.