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

Its deals fund films that sit squarely inside the traditional ecosystem — the furthest thing from multi-platform IP factories or content engines. —Dana Harris-Bridson, IndieWire, 15 Apr. 2026

The Hornets finished the year squarely in the middle, 16th in a 30 team league. —Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 14 Apr. 2026

Room rates include dinner and a far-above-average breakfast; Malin + Goetz amenities and no in-room televisions keep the focus squarely on the landscape and one another. —Jordi Lippe-McGraw, Robb Report, 9 Apr. 2026

Aimed squarely at off-roaders and adventurers, the RD6 from Geely truck brand Riddara offers multiple powertrain options. —New Atlas, 8 Apr. 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