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a level playing field

a situation that is fair for everyone

In Headline Expressions

In more detail

1. (idiom) a situation in which everyone has an equal chance to succeed, with no unfair advantages for anyone

Examples

• 1. We want a level playing field for all students, regardless of their background or wealth.

How to use a level playing field

This idiom is used to describe situations where conditions are fair and impartial for all participants. It is commonly employed in contexts such as business, sports, education, and politics to emphasize fairness and the removal of structural disadvantages. The phrase suggests that success will depend on merit rather than on pre-existing inequities.

Common phrases

• create a level playing field
• ensure a level playing field
• on a level playing field
• provide a level playing field
• compete on a level playing field

Synonyms

equal opportunity · fair competition · equal footing · even ground · fair chance

Opposites

unfair advantage · unequal odds

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse 'level playing field' with 'level ground' or treat it as a literal physical description rather than understanding it as an idiomatic expression for fair conditions.

Nearby in Headline Expressions

draw a line in the sand, throw cold water on, a slippery slope, moving the needle, a game changer, a race to the bottom

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained