Fairness: meaning, definitions and examples

Fairness is used to describe treating everyone equally and without bias. It can be applied in everyday situations, such as playing games, school activities, or any scenario needing equal treatment.

• The teacher showed fairness by giving all students the same amount of time to complete the test

Impartiality refers to not being biased or taking sides, especially in conflicts or judgments. It is important in legal contexts, journalism, and any decision-making process where neutrality is crucial.

• The judge's impartiality was essential to ensure a fair trial

Equity goes a step further than fairness and focuses on ensuring everyone has access to the same opportunities, often requiring different support for different people. It's often used in discussions about social issues, education, and workplace diversity.

• The company promotes equity by offering mentorship programs to underrepresented employees

Justice is about the broader concept of moral rightness and lawfulness. It is often used in legal, political, and societal contexts, focusing on fairness and the administration of the law.

• The activists demanded justice for the unfair treatment of marginalized groups

Used when discussing the concept of treating people in a just and honest manner. Suitable for everyday conversations, legal discussions, workplace policies, etc.

• The referee's fairness ensured that both teams played under the same conditions.
• Combating discrimination is a matter of fairness.

Best used when referring to the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities. Often seen in discussions about social, economic, and political issues.

• Striving for gender equality is essential for a fair society.
• Equality in education is key to providing opportunities for all children.

Suitable when emphasizing the absence of bias or favoritism. Commonly used in legal, journalistic, and evaluative contexts.

• Impartiality is crucial for a fair trial.
• Journalists must maintain impartiality to report news accurately.

Used in more formal or academic contexts to discuss principles of justice and fairness, especially regarding the distribution of resources or treatment within a system.

• The equitableness of the new tax policy was praised by economic experts.
• Ensuring equitableness in healthcare access is a major goal of the new reforms.