squarely

adverb

square·​ly ˈskwer-lē 

1

: in a straightforward or honest manner

we must squarely face the issue

2

a

: exactly, precisely

squarely in the middle

b

: so as to make solid contact

hit the ball squarely

feet squarely planted

3

: in a square form or manner : so as to be square

a squarely cut dress

4

: in a plain or unequivocal manner

the responsibility lies squarely with us

align ourselves squarely with our allies

Synonyms

• due
• exactly
• full
• just
• precisely
• right
• sharp
• smack-dab

Examples of squarely in a Sentence

We must face these problems squarely.

It's time to deal squarely with the facts.

literature that is squarely in the American tradition

Their marketing campaign is aimed squarely at adolescents.

The dart hit the board squarely in the middle.

Look me squarely in the eye and tell me you're not lying.

He hit the ball squarely.

Her feet were squarely planted.

Recent Examples on the Web

This week, her latest and much anticipated film, Challengers, releases in theaters, putting Zendaya squarely in the spotlight as Tashi Duncan, a powerful tennis competitor at the center of a steamy love triangle. —Cady Lang, TIME, 26 Apr. 2024

On Thursday, William J. Burns, the C.I.A. director, placed the lack of progress in the talks squarely at the feet of Hamas and its negative reaction to a U.S.-backed proposal presented this month. —Adam Rasgon, New York Times, 22 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1564, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

squarely

adverb

square·​ly

1

: in a plain or honest manner

we must squarely face the problem

2

a

: exactly sense 1a, precisely

squarely in the middle

b

: so as to make solid contact

hit the ball squarely

3

: in a square form or manner : so as to be square

a squarely cut dress