Where Does Turnabout Fair Play Come from?

The phrase turnabout is fair play originated in the mid-1700s in reference to gaming, meaning taking turns assures a fair game. At that time, turnabout was rendered as two words as in turn about.

What is the meaning of turnabout is fair play?

Definition of turnabout is fair play

US. —used to say that it is fair for a person to do something to harm someone who has harmed him or her She did it to me, so I'm going to do it to her.

What does fair play mean slang?

INFORMAL. People say fair play to someone to mean that they should be praised for something or that what they are doing is reasonable.

David Miller

David Miller

Executive Financial & Market Analyst

David Miller brings 15 years of experience in global economics, personal finance strategy, and market dynamics. He specializes in turning complex economic trends into actionable insights for everyday readers.