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, by winning just one of their past six Premier League games and dropping to sixth, the club seem to be back to square one.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

Producing another clutch will require them to start from square one.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 2, 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

Agreed, Mom, which puts me back at square one.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson