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THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE

A level playing field

Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.

01 / UNDERSTAND

Meaning in plain English

A situation in which everyone has a fair chance because the conditions do not favour one side.

02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT

The expression in a sentence

  1. Giving every applicant the same interview questions helps create a level playing field.

03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING

Quick idiom quiz

Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.

Can you recall the expression?

Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.

Giving every applicant the same interview questions helps create ________.
Show the answer

A level playing field — A situation in which everyone has a fair chance because the conditions do not favour one side.

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Make it yours

Write one sentence using “A level playing field” about your own life.

Check your sentence

Does your sentence match this meaning?

A situation in which everyone has a fair chance because the conditions do not favour one side.

Compare: Giving every applicant the same interview questions helps create a level playing field.

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More ways to understand and use it

When to use it

Use it to discuss fair competition in work, study or sport. It is suitable for ordinary conversation and professional discussion.

More examples in context

  • The school lends laptops to students to provide a level playing field.
  • Small shops want a level playing field when they compete with large chains.

Usage note

A level playing field means fair conditions, not a promise that everyone will get the same result. Common verbs include create and provide.

A short conversation

A: Why are we using anonymous applications?
B: We want a level playing field for all candidates.
A: Then everyone will be assessed on their skills.

One more practice question

Which policy helps create a level playing field?

A. Giving every candidate equal time to complete the same task.
B. Giving one candidate extra time because they know the manager.

Check your answer

A. Equal conditions give candidates a fair chance without favouring one person.

Related lessons

Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.

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