How Do You Spell SQUARE UP?

Pronunciation: [skwˈe͡əɹ ˈʌp] (IPA)

The phrase "square up" is pronounced /skwɛr ʌp/ and its spelling may appear unconventional. The "sq" beginning of "square" is an example of the rare consonant cluster in English, and the "u" in "up" can easily be mistaken for an "e" in terms of spelling. However, the unique spelling of "square up" helps convey its distinctive meaning of settling a debt or dispute, and has become a recognizable phrase in contemporary language.

SQUARE UP Meaning and Definition

1. Square up is a phrasal verb with multiple meanings, used both in a literal and figurative sense. In its literal sense, square up refers to the act of positioning or aligning something so that its edges or sides form a perfect square shape, or to make adjustments to ensure that something is level, straight, or even.

   In a figurative sense, square up has different connotations depending on the context in which it is used. It can mean to settle a debt, bill, or financial obligation, especially in a fair and honest manner. It implies the act of resolving or reconciling financial matters in order to achieve balance or make things right.

   Furthermore, square up can also refer to preparing oneself mentally or emotionally to face a challenge, conflict, or confrontation. It suggests the idea of bracing oneself or gathering courage to confront and deal with a difficult situation head-on.

   Additionally, square up can be used to describe the act of preparing oneself physically, such as getting ready for a competition or a fight. It denotes the process of adopting a proper stance or posture before engaging in a physical activity.

   Overall, square up can encompass various meanings related to aligning, settling, and preparing oneself, both in a literal and figurative sense.

Common Misspellings for SQUARE UP

• aquare up
• zquare up
• xquare up
• dquare up
• equare up
• wquare up
• s1uare up
• s2uare up
• swuare up
• sauare up
• sqyare up
• sqhare up
• sqjare up
• sqiare up
• sq8are up
• sq7are up
• squzre up
• squsre up
• squwre up

Etymology of SQUARE UP

The phrase "square up" has its origins in 19th-century slang. The word "square" was commonly used during that time to indicate fairness, honesty, and straightforwardness. It referred to someone who was honest in their dealings and actions. This usage of "square" eventually led to the phrase "square up", which means to settle a debt or dispute in a fair and honest manner. Over time, "square up" also came to mean preparing or getting ready for an upcoming challenge or confrontation, likely due to the association of fairness and directness with readiness.

Idioms with the word SQUARE UP

• square up with sm The idiom "square up with someone" means to settle a debt or an issue with someone, often involving payment or compensation. It suggests resolving any outstanding obligations or conflicts in a fair and balanced manner.
• square up to sm or sth The idiom "square up to someone or something" means to face or confront someone or a difficult situation directly, often with determination or courage. It implies standing up to a challenge without hesitating or backing down.
• square up (for fighting) The idiom "square up (for fighting)" means to prepare or position oneself physically and mentally for a fight or confrontation. It can refer to the act of assuming a fighting stance or posture, gathering one's courage or resolve, and mentally bracing oneself for a physical altercation.
• square up "Square up" means to settle or resolve a disagreement or debt with someone, often by paying them back or making amends. It can also refer to preparing to face a challenge or confrontation.

Similar spelling words for SQUARE UP

• square foot,
• square off,
• square block.