Out-of-square

Describing something that is not perfectly aligned, perpendicular, or rectangular; deviating from a right angle or a straight line. It indicates a lack of precision in measurement or construction, resulting in a shape or structure that isn't square or plumb. It can also describe a situation where the components are improperly fitted together, causing misalignment. This can be visible in the angles, dimensions, or overall appearance. The term emphasizes the deviation from an expected or desired orthogonal arrangement.

Out-of-square meaning with examples

• The old barn door was so out-of-square that it scraped against the frame, making it difficult to open and close. Its misalignment was a clear sign of settling. The carpenter attempted to fix it using shims but it only helped a little. The out-of-square alignment of the door frustrated the homeowner.
• After the earthquake, the foundation of the house shifted, causing the walls to be noticeably out-of-square. This caused cracks, the floors sloped, and the doors no longer closed properly. The structural integrity of the house was threatened by how out-of-square it was.
• The contractor realized, halfway through building the deck, that the supports were out-of-square. He had to spend additional time to correct the alignment to avoid compromising the structural integrity of the deck. The situation added significantly to both time and material costs.
• The antique picture frame was slightly out-of-square, giving it a rustic charm rather than a flaw. The irregularities gave the artwork an imperfect, vintage feel that the owner appreciated. The imperfections emphasized the age of the frame, even though the frame was out-of-square.