1 C1 idiomatic informal
To turn around to face someone, often in a challenging or combative manner
"He squared around to face his accuser and denied everything."
inseparable
square around
C1 informal inseparable intransitive
To turn to face someone, especially in a confrontational or challenging way
In plain English
To turn your body to face someone, ready for a fight or argument
What does "square around" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To square means to position your body so your shoulders are facing forward like the sides of a square; 'around' suggests turning
Actually means
To turn your body to face someone, ready for a fight or argument
Usage tip
Rare in modern standard English. Mainly found in older texts or regional American English. 'Square up' is the far more common equivalent in modern usage. ESL learners are unlikely to need this phrase actively.
Words that pair with "square around"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
opponent challenger
How to conjugate "square around"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
square around
I/you/we/they
3rd person
squares around
he/she/it
Past simple
squared around
yesterday
Past participle
squared around
have + pp
-ing form
squaring around
continuous
Hear "square around" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "square around" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "square around"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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