ˈlɛvəl ˈpleɪɪŋ fiːld
Sports
neutral
intermediate
- Literally:
- A field for playing that is flat and even
What does "level playing field" mean?
- A situation where everyone has an equal opportunity
- Fair conditions where no one has an unfair advantage
Examples
- We need to create a level playing field for all competitors.
- The regulations aim to ensure a level playing field.
- Without a level playing field, small businesses can't compete.
Origin
From sports—a level field ensures neither team has an advantage from slope or terrain. Applied to fairness in competition.
How to use it
Very common in business, politics, and sports. Emphasizes fairness.
Similar expressions
fair conditions
equal opportunity
even odds
Opposites
unfair advantage
tilted
biased conditions
Related idioms
- no pain no gain
Success requires hard work and sacrifice
- ball is in your court
It's your turn to take action or make a decision
- like riding a bicycle
A skill that, once learned, is never forgotten
- drop the ball
To fail to do something important; to make a mistake
- on the ball
Alert and competent
- jump the gun
To act prematurely or before the proper time
Use it in a practice answer
Try "level playing field" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.