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square off

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square off (for something)

to get ready for an argument or a fight. John was angry and appeared to be squaring off for a fight. When those two square off, everyone gets out of the way.

See also: off, square

square something off

to make something square; to trim something until it is square. You will have to square this corner off a bit so it will match the part it will be attached to. Please square off this corner.

See also: off, square

square off

to oppose someone directly Two teams of students square off and earn points for answering questions correctly. Candidates are supposed to square off in a debate and focus on the issues.

Etymology: from the meaning in boxing of square off (to take a position that shows you are ready to fight)

See also: off, square

square off

Take a fighting stance, prepare to fight, as in As they squared off, the teacher came out and stopped them, or The ambassador said the two countries were squaring off. [First half of 1800s]

See also: off, square

square off

v.

1. To make something square or rectangular: The carpenter squared the plank off with a table saw. The designer has squared off the toe of the shoe.

2. To assume a fighting stance; prepare to fight: The two fighters squared off and exchanged blows.

3. To face someone or something in a competition or debate: The two candidates will square off in a debate. The team squared off against its longtime rival. The governor prepared to square off with legislators over the new tax bill.

See also: off, square

square off

in. to prepare to fight; to prepare to argue or compete. They were squaring off, so I asked them if they’d like to step outside.

See also: off, square