squarely

[ skwair-lee ]

adverb

1. in a square shape, form, or manner.
2. directly; without evasion; in a straight or straightforward manner:

   to face a problem squarely.

3. in an honest or open manner; fairly.
4. in a clear manner; unequivocally:

   Our faith is based squarely on a commitment to the rights of all human beings.

5. firmly; so as to come into direct contact:

   The ball struck him squarely in the face.

6. in the exact place that is specified; exactly:

   The house sat squarely in the middle of the park.

squarely

/ ˈskwɛəlɪ /

adverb

1. in a direct way; straight

   he hit me squarely on the nose

2. in an honest, frank, and just manner
3. at right angles

Word History and Origins

Origin of squarely¹

First recorded in 1550–60; square + -ly

Example Sentences

So, the responsibility for Trump’s initial rise to power, his resurrection and everything that is now coming sits squarely with white Christian Americans.

From Salon

In the finger-pointing that naturally follows a stunning loss, a handful of Democratic officials and operatives are putting the blame squarely on Joe Biden.

From Salon

But Father Gutiérrez maintained that his teachings were far from revolutionary but rather squarely rooted in the Bible.

From BBC

But a message receiving prominent play in the campaign’s final weeks is aimed squarely at reigniting the culture wars, highlighting an issue that has little direct effect on most Americans’ lives.

From Los Angeles Times

Schiff’s net worth places him squarely in the middle of California’s congressional delegation.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• justly
• objectively