Imbalanced: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a situation where elements are not in equal or proper proportion. Often used in scientific, medical, or technical contexts.

• The patient's hormone levels were imbalanced.
• An imbalanced budget can lead to financial issues.

Used when comparing things that are not the same in amount, size, or value. Can have negative connotations, especially in social, economic, or legal contexts.

• The pay between men and women remains unequal.
• There was an unequal distribution of food and water among the refugees.

Used to describe surfaces that are not level or to indicate variability. Commonly used for physical descriptions and in sports or performance contexts.

• Be careful walking on the uneven ground.
• Their performance was uneven throughout the season.

Employed when something is not in correct or appropriate proportion in comparison to something else. Frequently used in legal, economic, or social discussions to highlight fairness or justice.

• The punishment was disproportionate to the crime.
• The distribution of resources in the country is highly disproportionate.

Refers to something that is uneven or asymmetrical. Often used to describe physical objects or competitions where one side is clearly dominant.

• The team's victory was lopsided, winning by 50 points.
• The painting looked lopsided on the wall.

Use this word when referring to situations where things are not in proper balance or proportion, often in physical or measurable contexts.

• The diet is imbalanced and lacks essential nutrients
• The workload distribution in the team is imbalanced

Use this word to describe situations where behavior or actions are not just or reasonable, usually implicating intentional or perceived injustice.

• It feels unfair that he gets all the credit for the project
• The decision to fire her was completely unfair

This word is appropriate for situations where there is a notable difference in size, amount, or value, often indicating an unfair distribution.

• There is an unequal distribution of resources between urban and rural areas
• The two teams had unequal levels of experience

This word is used to describe situations where someone or something has an unfair preference or prejudice for or against something, usually in judgment or decision-making contexts.

• The judge's ruling was biased in favor of the defendant
• The report seems biased towards one political party

Use this word to describe behavior or policies that unfairly treat a person or group of people differently, often based on race, gender, age, or other characteristics. It has a negative connotation.

• The company's hiring practices were found to be discriminatory against women
• Discriminatory laws were implemented during that period