What does “Square the circle” mean?
"Square the circle" means attempting to achieve the impossible or solve an unsolvable problem.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He's been trying to square the circle by finding a way to make everyone happy, but it's just not possible.
Example
The scientists are attempting to square the circle by finding a cure for a disease that has stumped them for years.
Example
The politician promised to square the circle by balancing the budget without raising taxes, but it's unlikely to happen
Is “Square the circle” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Square the circle” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Square the circle” effectively in context?
You can use "Square the Circle" to describe a situation where someone is attempting to achieve the impossible or solve an unsolvable problem. It emphasizes the futility of the task at hand. For example, if a friend is trying to please everyone in a group, you might say, 'You're trying to square the circle here. It's just not possible.'
- 1Problem-solving
The scientists have been trying to square the circle by finding a cure for a disease that has stumped them for years.
- 2Negotiation
He's been trying to square the circle by finding a way to make everyone happy, but it's just not possible.
- 3Political promises
The politician promised to square the circle by balancing the budget without raising taxes, but it's unlikely to happen.
Similar phrases to “Square the circle”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Square the circle” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Square the Circle" can be traced back to ancient Greece. In geometry, squaring the circle refers to the impossible task of constructing a square with the same area as a given circle using only a compass and straightedge. The ancient Greeks were fascinated by this problem, but it wasn't until the 19th century that it was proven mathematically impossible.
Is “Square the circle” common in everyday conversation?
While "Square the Circle" is not as common as some other expressions, it is still known and used in everyday conversation. People often use it to highlight the impossibility of a task or problem.
What tone does “Square the circle” have?
"Square the Circle" conveys a tone of impossibility and frustration. It is often used to express skepticism or to point out the unrealistic nature of a situation.
Can “Square the circle” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Square the Circle" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of attempting the impossible. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's been trying to square the circle, but it's just not possible.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "square the circle"!' to imply the impossibility of a task.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- pipe dream
- mission impossible
- unsolvable problem
- inconceivable task
- unattainable goal
Antonyms
- achievable goal
- solvable problem
- possible task
- attainable objective
- realistic expectation
