phrase General Slang

On The Level

/ɒn ðə ˈlɛv.əl/ · phrase · informal

Honest, fair, and on the up-and-up, no tricks, no double-dealing.

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Definitions

1

Of a transaction or arrangement, legitimate and aboveboard.

“Everything about the sale was strictly on the level.”
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2

Genuine or sincere, as opposed to a con or a joke.

“Are you on the level, or is this another gag?”
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3

Honest and trustworthy; dealing fairly and without deceit.

“Don't worry, the bookie's on the level.”
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On The Level In A Sentence

I'll only do business with people who are on the level.
He swore he was on the level about the whole thing.
If this offer's on the level, I'm in.

Origin & Usage

American slang established by the early 20th century and common in the 1920s, drawing on the carpenter's and mason's level as a metaphor for straight, true dealing. The phrase is sometimes linked to Masonic imagery, but that connection is unproven folk etymology.

Variants level withon the up-and-up
Tags #1920s#flapper#jazz-age#vintage#honesty

People Also Ask

What does on the level mean?

It means honest, fair, and trustworthy, with no deception involved.

Where does on the level come from?

It draws on the builder's level as a symbol of straight, true dealing. A link to Masonic symbolism is sometimes claimed but is not proven.

Is on the level still used today?

Yes, it survives in everyday English, especially in the question 'Are you on the level?' meaning 'Are you serious?'

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