Equality: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'equality' to talk about the general concept of everyone having the same status or rights in society or a particular group.

• The government strives for gender equality in all sectors.
• Equality is a fundamental principle of human rights.

Use 'equal rights' when talking about everyone having the same legal entitlements and protections.

• The civil rights movement fought for the equal rights of all citizens.
• Equal rights for women remain a major issue in many countries.

Use 'equal treatment' to describe situations where everyone is treated the same way, regardless of their differences.

• In the workplace, all employees should receive equal treatment.
• Equal treatment in healthcare is essential for a fair society.

Use 'equal opportunities' when referring to situations where everyone has the same chances to access resources, jobs, education, etc.

• The company prides itself on providing equal opportunities for all employees.
• Schools must ensure equal opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.

General concept of ensuring that all people have the same rights and opportunities regardless of any differences.

• The new policy promotes equality in the workplace.
• They are fighting for gender equality in sports.

Addressing and correcting historical and present-day injustices and inequalities faced by certain racial groups.

• Activists are demanding racial justice for the victims of police brutality.
• The organization is dedicated to achieving racial justice through legal reforms.

Ensuring equal representation and treatment of all racial groups, often in specific areas like employment or education.

• The company is committed to racial parity in its leadership team.
• Achieving racial parity in schools is a key goal for the district.

Ensuring that people of all races are treated fairly and without bias in various aspects such as legal matters, employment, and education.

• Racial fairness is crucial for a just society.
• The government is working to promote racial fairness in hiring practices.

General use referring to the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities.

• They fought for gender equality in the workplace.
• The organization promotes equality for all races.

Deals specifically with equalizing the distribution of wealth among different groups of people or across society.

• Wealth equality is a key goal for social reformers.
• Programs to improve wealth equality often target financial literacy and access to capital.

Refers specifically to fair distribution and equal access to economic resources and opportunities.

• Policies aimed at achieving economic equality are essential for reducing poverty.
• Economic equality can lead to a more stable society.

Used when discussing fair and impartial distribution of resources, wealth, or opportunities among people.

• The government aims for equitable distribution of healthcare services.
• Equitable distribution of resources is crucial for social harmony.