‘Above Board’ Idiom [Meaning, Origin & Sentences]

The idiom “above board” means open, honest, and transparent. It is often used to describe a situation or transaction that is legitimate and fair, without any hidden or deceitful intentions.

Above Board idiom origin

The phrase “above board” likely originated from the chess game, where all pieces are placed on the board in plain view of both players. To be “above board” in chess means that all pieces are positioned openly rather than hidden or concealed.

How “above board” idiom is used?

This idiom is often used to describe business dealings or negotiations, where both parties are expected to be upfront and honest about their intentions and actions. For example, a company that conducts its business “above board” will be transparent about its financial dealings, practices, and policies.

In everyday life, the phrase “above board” can describe any situation where honesty and transparency are essential. For example, a politician who is “above board” will be open and honest about their motivations and actions rather than trying to hide or deceive others.

Above Board idiom sentence

• The company’s financial dealings were all above board, with no hidden agendas or unethical practices.
• The election campaign was conducted above board, with no dirty tricks or dishonest tactics.
• The real estate transaction was completely above board, with all documents and agreements adequately signed and filed.
• The job interview was conducted in an above board manner, with no discrimination or unfair treatment.
• The charity organization’s fundraising efforts were all above board, with full transparency about where the donations were going.
• The business partnership was formed to be above board and fair to both parties.
• The new employee was hired through an above board process, with all qualifications and references thoroughly checked.
• The board of directors ensured that all their meetings and decisions were above board and transparent.
• The government agency’s policies and procedures were all above board, with no favoritism or corruption.
• The stock market trading was above board and compliant with all regulations.
• The company’s accounting practices were all above board, with no financial irregularities or mismanagement.
• The legal team ensured all contract negotiations were above board and in line with the law.
• The charity event was run in an above board fashion, with all proceeds going toward the designated cause.
• The organization’s leadership team is committed to being above board and transparent.
• The political campaign was run above board, with no underhanded tactics or lies.
• The company’s hiring process was above board and fair, with all candidates equally considered.
• The business deal was conducted above board, with both parties being honest and transparent about their intentions.
• The board of trustees made sure that all of their decisions and actions were above board and in the organization’s best interests.
• The company’s financial statements were all above board, with no attempts to mislead or deceive shareholders.
• The job application process was above board, with all candidates given equal consideration and no discrimination.
• The government agency’s policies were all above board and transparent, with no hidden agendas or corruption.
• The stock market trading was conducted above board manner, with all transactions compliant with regulations.
• The charity’s fundraising efforts were completely above board, with all donations being used for the designated cause.
• The company’s accounting practices were above board and transparent, with no financial mismanagement or irregularities.
• The legal team ensured that all contract negotiations were above board and in accordance with the law.
• The organization’s leadership team is committed to being above board and transparent.
• The political campaign was conducted in an above board fashion, with no underhanded tactics or lies.
• The company’s hiring process was fair and above board, with all candidates equally considered.
• The nonprofit organization’s fundraising efforts were all above board, with full transparency about how the donations were used.
• The business deal was above board, with both parties being honest and transparent about their intentions.
• The board of trustees ensured that their actions and decisions were above board and in the organization’s best interests.
• The company’s financial statements were transparent and above board, with no attempts to mislead or deceive shareholders.
• The job application process was conducted above board, with no discrimination or favoritism.

Summary

Overall, the idiom “above board” is a reminder that honesty and transparency are essential values in any situation, whether in business, politics, or personal relationships. Being open and forthright can build trust and foster healthy and productive interactions with others.