on the level

1. Honest, without deception: “We doubted that the offer could be genuine, but it turned out to be on the level.”

Idioms and Phrases

Honest, straightforward, sincere, as in You can believe her—she's on the level . This expression may have come from Freemasonry, where the carpenter's level symbolizes integrity. [Late 1800s]

Example Sentences

“Since that day, I have been filled with an immense pride about how well we used the resources we had, under Arledge’s guidance, and what positive impact it had on the level of coverage of live events, sports or news, in our industry.”

From Los Angeles Times

He said more information was needed on the level or frequency of force used as well as factors such as age, sex and race.

From BBC

In the latter case, patients are isolated to focus solely on recovery, usually for six to 12 weeks at a time, depending on the level of care needed.

From Science Daily

But, on the level of the cookware in your kitchen, it’s not that concerning.

From Slate

Depending on the level of check, different criminal records and cautions are disclosed on a person's certificate.

From BBC