Even steven is a phrase used to describe a situation where things are level, balanced, or fair. There are a number of synonyms that can be used interchangeably with this phrase, including 'equal', 'balanced', 'fair and square', 'neck and neck', and 'dead heat'. These words can be used to describe a wide range of situations, from sports events and races where there is no clear winner, to business negotiations where both parties feel they have achieved a fair deal. Whatever the context, the key idea behind all of these synonyms is that the outcome is evenly matched and nobody has an unfair advantage.