aboveboard
/əˈbʌvˌbɔːrd/
ADJECTIVE
1. In open sight; without trick, concealment, or deception
Conducted openly, honestly, and fairly, without secrecy, dishonesty, or deceptive intentions.
1.1. Honest and transparent business transactions
Describes financial dealings, commercial transactions, or business activities conducted openly and honestly, without fraud or hidden arrangements.
Synonyms
- honest
- transparent
- fair
- straightforward
- legitimate
- on the up and up
Antonyms
- dishonest
- deceitful
- deceptive
- underhanded
- shady
- fraudulent
Examples
- It's important to keep all transactions aboveboard to maintain trust in business dealings.
Related Words
- integrity
- accountability
- fair dealing
- good faith
- ethical
1.2. Open and fair organizational practices
Describes the policies, procedures, and practices of an organization that are conducted honestly, ethically, and transparently.
Synonyms
- ethical
- honest
- fair
- principled
- scrupulous
- trustworthy
Antonyms
- unethical
- dishonest
- corrupt
- devious
- unscrupulous
Examples
- The company prides itself on its aboveboard practices, ensuring transparency at all levels.
Related Words
- integrity
- good faith
- accountability
- corporate governance
- responsibility
1.3. Fair and impartial decision-making
Describes decisions and procedures carried out openly and fairly, without favoritism, manipulation, or concealed influences.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- biased
- dishonest
- devious
- underhanded
- corrupt
Examples
- The committee's decision-making process was open and aboveboard, free from any hint of favoritism.
Related Words
- objectivity
- impartiality
- fairness
- transparency
- accountability
1.4. Open and honest negotiations
Describes discussions, negotiations, or agreements conducted candidly and transparently, with no concealed intentions or deceptive tactics.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- deceptive
- evasive
- dishonest
- dissembling
- underhanded
Examples
- To avoid misunderstandings, it's best to keep all negotiations aboveboard and well-documented.
Related Words
- good faith
- disclosure
- candor
- directness
- sincerity
1.5. Legitimate and legally proper agreements
Describes contracts, arrangements, or activities that are lawful, legitimate, and free from suspicious or deceptive practices.
Synonyms
- legitimate
- lawful
- proper
- honest
- bona fide
- above suspicion
Antonyms
- illegal
- illegitimate
- fraudulent
- deceitful
- underhanded
Examples
- The lawyer assured her client that the contract was entirely aboveboard and legally sound.
Related Words
- legality
- compliance
- validity
- good faith
- law-abiding