Idiom
level playing field
Meanings
A fair situation in which everyone has equal opportunities and no unfair advantages.
Definition
A level playing field is a situation where everyone has the same chances and no one has an unfair advantage.
A level playing field describes fair conditions in which all people or groups start with the same opportunities and follow the same rules. It is often used when talking about business, competition, education, or politics. The focus is on removing special advantages so outcomes depend on effort and ability rather than unequal conditions.
Examples
- The new regulations are meant to create a level playing field for small businesses.
- Scholarships can help create a level playing field for students from low-income families.
- We need transparent rules to keep a level playing field in the bidding process.
- They upgraded the equipment to ensure a level playing field for all teams.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes say "equal playing field" instead of the standard phrase "level playing field."
More at B2 level
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share updates, confirm plans, or check progress.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More noun phrases
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- Monday morning quarterback A "Monday morning quarterback" is someone who criticizes or judges a decision after the outcome is …
- fifth wheel A fifth wheel is a person who is unnecessary or awkwardly included in a situation, especially with …
- gravy train An easy and profitable situation that provides steady benefits with little effort.
- long shot A long shot is something that has a very small chance of success but is still possible.