Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
square-the-circle
idiom
/skwɛr ðə ˈsɜr.kəl/
Definition
To attempt to solve a problem that is considered impossible or to try to make something logical or coherent that fundamentally cannot be.
Examples
- Despite his efforts to square-the-circle between his friends and family, their differences remained.
- Trying to square-the-circle in negotiations led to prolonged discussions without any real agreement.
Meaning
This phrase refers to a futile effort to reconcile two contradictory concepts or to achieve an unattainable goal.
Synonyms
- futile attempt
- impossible task
- catch-22
