square off
The phrase "square off" can be used in various contexts, from physical confrontations to financial transactions.
Definition
B2General
(informal)To get ready for a confrontation or conflict.
Example
- The two rivals squared off in a heated debate.
- Protesters and police squared off in the city center.
B2Sports
(informal)To assume a fighting stance or position.
Example
- The boxers squared off in the ring, ready to start the match.
C1Financial Markets
(technical)To close out a position by buying or selling an equal quantity of a security to offset an existing position.
Example
- Traders squared off their positions before the market closed.
C1Design
(technical)To make a design more boxy or angular.
Example
- The architect squared off the edges of the building to give it a modern look.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "square off":
square upsquare awayset squareon the squareout of squarebox offround offsquare the circleround outshape upsquare one's shouldersstand offface offfour squareeven upeven outfront upbox upsquare enginefront offlevel offbox outcorner upsquare divisionduke it outstraighten outplay offmatch upround instraighten upstand infair and square