square one

NOUN

starting point

Synonyms

WEAK

beginning clean slate fresh start new beginning outset

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If not, we are back to square one.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

But he quickly found himself back to square one; back to where it all started.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

Now 41, she has moved around the UK for work and feels like she was "back to square one" with doctors each time.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2026

He had to begin at square one and get to square 100.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2026

One is square, one is rectangular and flat.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen