out of square

geometry construction idiom

The phrase "out of square" can refer to geometric misalignment or be used figuratively to describe dishonesty.

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Definition

B2Geometry

(technical)Not forming exact right angles.

Example

The frame is out of square, so the corners don't meet properly.

B2Construction

(technical)Misaligned, often resulting in structural issues.

Example

The foundation is out of square, causing problems with the door alignment.

C1Idiomatic

(informal)Not honest or straightforward.

Example

His dealings are always out of square; you can't trust him.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "out of square":

on the square out of line square off set square out of frame out of step out of joint out of whack out of phase out of gauge out of place square the circle out of sync out of bounds out of tune out of sorts out of one's box out of off balance out of the box out of question square up out of the picture out of the common out of one's time out of character square engine out of order long corner off target