Would you like to say that there has been a considerable way forward, and that something has to start from the very beginning of the process? The phrase 'back to square one' can be used to say this in conversation, as a popular figurative saying in the English language. This post unpacks the meaning, use, and origin of the phrase.
Meaning
The saying 'back to square one' is a common figurative saying that can be found in the English language. When used, the phrase is said to mean that something, usually specified in the sentence or context, has to start from the beginning.
The phrase 'back to square one' can be used as a direct sentence, or it can be said in reference to someone as a third-party in conversation.
The phrase 'back to square one' can imply that something starts from the beginning, and the phrase is usually said with negative implications.
Someone can say that they 'are going back to square one' or that they 'had to go back to square one' as various acceptable usages of the phrase.
Someone can also say '[it] goes back to square one' to use the phrase in the present tense.
While use of the phrase in the denial form is rare, the saying can also be used to say that someone or something is 'not going back to square one'.
The phrase 'back to square one' can be compared in meaning to some similar phrases that include 'going back to basics' or 'starting from scratch'.
Example Usage
“If you think that I'm going to give up everything I”ve worked for, declare that I'm bankrupt and go back to square one, then you have got a whole other thing ocming.”
“The project had to go back to square one thanks to the fact that someone let a fly into the teleporter. We have to start the whole thing over again. I can't believe it!”
“They had to go back to square one after their mother died. She went out of this world without leaving them a cent in savings, and they had to make it work.”
“I'm going back to square one and getting my college degree next year, who cares that I'm seventy-five years old right now?”
Origin
The phrase 'back to square one' is a common phrase in the English language today, but online language resources say that the exact origin and first use of the saying is difficult to find.
According to most etymology resources, the phrase 'back to square one' is a saying that might have come from the sport of football: when someone goes back to the first square, then the phrase is a tactical reference that is thought to have branched out of the sport and into popular use.
Other etymology resources present a different origin story for the phrase, and some state that the phrase 'back to square one' comes from the board game Snakes & Ladders instead. Loss can take you back to a previous point on the board – or back to square one.
The phrase 'back to square one' was already in popular use throughout the Engilsh language in the 1800s, with use well documented through to the 21st century where the phrase appeared on message boards and social media.
Phrases Similar to Back to Square One
- Start from scratch
- Back to basics
Phrases Opposite to Back to Square One
- N/a
What is the Correct Saying?
- [Going] back to square one
Ways People May Say Back to Square One Incorrectly
There are several ways in which someone can use the phrase 'back to square one' in the wrong way, or misunderstand the meaning of the phrase.
If someone says 'back to the first square' then the phrase loses its figurative meaning and it becomes more easy to misunderstand.
The phrase can also confuse when it is translated as a direct saying into other languages for which there is no equivalent saying.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Back to Square One
There are several correct ways to use the phrase 'back to square one', including to say that someone has 'gone back to square one' or 'has to go back to square one'.