square one

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

Aston Martin is still at square one, despite making Adrian Newey, the most successful designer in F1 history, one of the highest paid people in the sport.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 8, 2026

You could say that the arrest was illegal, and you go back to square one, but at the same time you’ve apprehended the person.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026

"I guess it's back to square one," George said.

From "Case of the Sneaky Snowman: Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew, #5" by Carolyn Keene