Back to square one
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Failure Implication
The phrase often implies a failure to progress, requiring a fresh start.
Our experiments failed; we're back to square one.
Pro Tip 2/3Starting Over
It suggests starting over again, erasing all progress made previously.
The code has bugs. Looks like I'm back to square one.
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Emotion
It usually carries a negative emotional connotation, indicating frustration or disappointment.
With the lost contract, it's back to square one for us.
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