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 of squarely

• right
• just

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

But that audit focused squarely on the financial trail between Epstein and the think tank. —Jessica Mathews, Fortune, 9 May 2026

But, like John Paul’s words in Poland in 1979, Leo’s words in 2026 have addressed a global conflict squarely if obliquely. —Paul Elie, New Yorker, 8 May 2026

Indeed, going into Tuesday’s debate, the former Health and Human Services Secretary had seen an uptick in his polling, putting him squarely behind Tom Steyer as the number two Democrat in the crowded field. —Douglas Schoen, Oc Register, 8 May 2026

The two challenges facing this district include the mental health crisis among our young people and the massive workforce disruption being driven by AI, and both fall squarely within this committee’s jurisdiction. —Mercury News & East Bay Times Editorial Boards, Mercury News, 7 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1564, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for squarely

• unfairly
• barely
• fairly
• rarely

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