Call it even

The phrase call it even is often used to indicate that two parties, after a dispute or transaction, have agreed to consider everything settled, with no debts, obligations, or hard feelings remaining between them. This expression usually follows a negotiation, trade, or disagreement, signifying that both sides have agreed to balance things out. It implies that any previous imbalance, whether in terms of money, effort, or other resources, has been resolved, and neither side owes anything more to the other. The idea behind calling it even is to bring closure to a situation where there might have been a sense of unfairness or inequity. It suggests that both parties are now on equal footing and that the matter is considered finished. The phrase can also indicate that both sides are content with the outcome, even if it’s not ideal, and are choosing to move forward without any lingering issues. It’s commonly used in both casual and business contexts, helping to clear the air and promote mutual understanding and closure.

Sample Sentences

1. After a long discussion, we decided to call it even and forget about the small differences.
2. You’ve helped me out enough times, so let’s just call it even and not worry about any more favors.
3. He offered to pay me back, but I told him not to worry about it, and we agreed to call it even.
4. After both sides gave up a little, they decided to call it even and end the negotiation.
5. The company gave me a refund, and I decided to call it even, accepting their offer.
6. You gave me a ride to work, and I bought you lunch—let’s call it even now.
7. After we worked together on the project, we both agreed to call it even, as we felt the effort was fairly distributed.
8. I didn’t want to argue over something small, so I suggested we call it even and move on.
9. The two friends had an argument but eventually decided to call it even and put the past behind them.
10. After hours of work, we both agreed to call it even and consider the project completed.

Synonyms for “Call It Even”

1. Settle the score
2. Break even
3. Consider it settled
4. Consider it squared
5. Call it a draw
6. Clear the slate
7. Resolve the matter
8. Let bygones be bygones
9. Make things right
10. Close the book

Antonyms for “Call It Even”

1. Keep score
2. Hold a grudge
3. Owe
4. Continue the dispute
5. Remain in debt
6. Carry a balance
7. Leave things unsettled
8. Keep a tally
9. Leave things unfinished
10. Leave unresolved

Related Words and Expressions

Related Words:

• Settlement
• Agreement
• Resolution
• Reconciliation
• Compromise
• Closure
• Balance
• Fairness
• Fair deal
• Equity

Phrasal Verbs:

• Settle up (to resolve debts or balances)
• Clear up (to resolve misunderstandings or disputes)
• Wrap up (to finish or conclude something)
• Square up (to pay back or settle debts)
• Come to terms (to reach an agreement)

Idiomatic Expressions:

• Break even (to come out even after considering all the costs and gains)
• Call it a draw (to declare that both sides are equal, with no winner)
• Make it even (to balance things out or resolve an imbalance)
• Clear the air (to resolve a conflict or misunderstanding)
• Settle the score (to resolve a conflict or debt between two parties)