How to Use the Phrase "Be There Or Be Square"

"Be there or be square" is a playful phrase often used to encourage someone to attend an event or gathering. It implies that those who do not participate will miss out on something enjoyable or significant.

👇 Example: We're having a barbecue this weekend, so be there or be square!

In this sentence, "be there or be square" means that attending the barbecue is strongly encouraged because it promises to be enjoyable or memorable. Those who choose not to attend may miss out on the fun and camaraderie of the event.

Try Engram's Grammar Checker for FREE!

How to Use the Phrase "Be There Or Be Square"

When to use "be there or be square"

"Be there or be square" is a lighthearted expression commonly used to invite or persuade someone to participate in an activity or event. It suggests that the event will be enjoyable or noteworthy, and those who opt not to attend will miss out on something special.

When using this phrase, it's essential to maintain a playful tone to convey the invitation effectively. It's often used informally among friends or in casual settings rather than in formal or professional contexts. Additionally, it's worth noting that the phrase originated in the 1950s and may be considered somewhat outdated by some individuals.

Example contexts:

Inviting friends to a party or social gathering
Encouraging colleagues to attend a team-building event
Urging family members to join in on a recreational activity or outing

The use of "be there or be square" over time

As you can see from the graph below, the phrase "be there or be square" saw fluctuations in use throughout time. The phrase began to increase in popularity in the 1960s, and peaked in the 2000s.

Example sentences

We're hosting a movie night tonight, so be there or be square!
The concert is going to be epic, so be there or be square.
I'm throwing a surprise birthday party for Sarah tomorrow, and you need to be there or be square!
Our class reunion is next weekend, and it won't be the same without you there, so be there or be square.
The beach trip is happening this Saturday, and you don't want to miss out, so be there or be square.
The new restaurant in town is opening tomorrow, and I heard they have amazing food, so be there or be square.
It's game night at my place on Friday, and we need your skills on the team, so be there or be square.
The hiking club is planning a trip to the mountains next month, and it's going to be incredible, so be there or be square.
The charity fundraiser is happening next week, and we're counting on your support, so be there or be square.
We're having a potluck dinner on Sunday, and your famous lasagna is needed, so be there or be square.

Examples from the web

"Sunday nights at 9pm on Showtime, be there or be square." - The Guardian

"Farage made his announcement on Twitter on Saturday, urging his followers to be there or be square." - The Guardian

Other ways to say "be there or be square"

You can use the following phrases to express your appreciation of the food:

Join us or miss out!
You can't miss it!
Make sure you're there!
Come along or regret it!
Come if you don't want to miss out!

FAQs

What does "square" mean in slang?

In slang, "square" typically refers to someone who is conventional, traditional, or conservative in their behavior, style, or beliefs. It often implies a lack of hipness or coolness, and someone who is considered "square" may be perceived as boring or out of touch with contemporary trends or attitudes, especially those of youth culture. The term originated in the mid-20th century as part of Beat Generation slang and gained popularity during the countercultural movements of the 1950s and 1960s. Being called "square" was often used to criticize someone for being overly conformist or adhering too closely to mainstream norms.

Summary

"Be there or be square" is a fun and informal phrase used to invite or encourage someone to attend an event or activity. It implies that the event will be enjoyable or memorable and that those who choose not to participate may miss out on something special. When using this phrase, maintain a playful tone and consider the context to ensure it is appropriate for the situation. Whether inviting friends to a party, rallying colleagues for a team-building event, or encouraging family members to join in on an outing, "be there or be square" adds a touch of humor and excitement to the invitation.

Want to sound like a native speaker?

Engram’s AI-powered grammar checker makes your English sound like a native speaker’s, suggesting natural English expressions on top of fixing grammar, spelling, punctuation, word order, and vocabulary.