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.

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

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

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

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 2, 2026

Charlie is a type, too, the prodigal who has screwed up his career and finds himself at square one, executing a rescue mission that only emphasizes his setback.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 11, 2025

One is square, one is rectangular and flat.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen