square-the-circle

It’s kind of hard to square that circle until you realize that Trump exists across many timelines,” he said. “It’s the ‘Trump multiverse theory.’ We just happen to be living in the worst one.”



square-the-circle

Square the circle: Learn what the means through example!

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”:
Catch lightning in a bottle

To try to capture or control something that is unpredictable or impossible to control

Example

He's trying to catch lightning in a bottle by expecting everything to go perfectly.

Chase one's own tail

To engage in futile or pointless activity

Example

She's been chasing her own tail by trying to please everyone.

Build castles in the air

To have unrealistic or impractical dreams or plans

Example

He's building castles in the air by expecting to become a millionaire overnight.

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
;
Notes from a Native English Speaker

Phrases with idiomatic and figurative meanings can be hard to understand from just reading them, so it’s helpful to know what they mean and when to use them!

Common daily expressions are good to have on hand. Learning them will help you sound like a natural and improve your conversation skills.