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Inequality: meaning, definitions and examples

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inequality

 

[ɪnɪˈkwɒlɪti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematical concept

A mathematical relationship between two expressions that are not equal. Inequality symbols include < (less than), > (greater than), ≤ (less than or equal to), and ≥ (greater than or equal to). Inequalities are solved by determining the values that make the statement true.

Synonyms

discrepancy, disparity, imbalance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inequality

Use this word to describe a general lack of equality, particularly in the context of social issues, economic status, rights, and opportunities.

  • The fight against racial inequality is far from over
  • Income inequality has been a pressing issue in many countries
disparity

This word indicates a significant difference or gap between two things, often pertaining to conditions, treatments, or outcomes among groups.

  • There is a noticeable disparity in healthcare access between urban and rural areas
  • The study revealed a large disparity in educational attainment between different socioeconomic groups
imbalance

This term is useful when referring to a situation where elements are not in equal or proper proportions, often related to systems, relationships, or physical conditions.

  • The imbalance of power in the workplace can lead to exploitation
  • The sudden economic growth led to an imbalance in the supply and demand of housing
discrepancy

This term is usually used when discussing a difference or inconsistency between what is expected and what actually exists, particularly in data, reports, or observations.

  • There was a discrepancy in the financial report that raised suspicions
  • The teacher noticed a discrepancy between the student's test scores and their classroom performance

Examples of usage

  • 2x + 5 < 15
  • 3y ≥ 9
  • x - 4 > 2
  • a/2 ≤ 8
  • b + 3 < 10
Context #2 | Noun

social justice

A situation where there is a difference in opportunities, treatment, or outcomes between individuals or groups. Inequalities can be based on factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, or education.

Synonyms

discrepancy, disparity, unfairness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
inequality

Used when discussing differences in status, rights, opportunities, or income among different groups of people. Often associated with social justice issues.

  • The government needs to address income inequality in the country.
  • Gender inequality remains a significant issue in the workplace.
disparity

Used to describe a significant difference between two things, often relating to economic, social, or health conditions among different groups.

  • There is a noticeable disparity in healthcare access between urban and rural areas.
  • Economic disparity has been increasing over the past decade.
unfairness

Used to emphasize a situation that is not just or reasonable, often with moral or emotional connotations.

  • The students protested the unfairness of the new exam policy.
  • He spoke out against the unfairness he experienced at work.
discrepancy

Used when pointing out a difference between two things that should be the same or when discussing inconsistencies in data or reports.

  • There is a discrepancy between the reported sales figures and the actual sales.
  • The auditor found a discrepancy in the financial statements.

Examples of usage

  • gender inequality in the workplace
  • racial inequalities in access to healthcare
  • income inequality in society

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'inequality' has roots in Latin, from 'aequalis', meaning equal or even. It was first used in English in the 14th century.
  • Throughout history, many societies have struggled with issues of inequality, from ancient civilizations to modern times.
  • The French Revolution (1789) was partially driven by the desire to address social inequalities among the classes.

Economics

  • Economic inequality measures the disparity in wealth and income between different groups, often emphasized through the Gini coefficient.
  • In the past few decades, income inequality has been rising in many developed nations, affecting middle and lower-income families significantly.
  • Wealth inequality is often more pronounced than income inequality, as wealth accumulates over generations through property and investments.

Literature

  • Many authors have examined themes of inequality in their works, such as Charles Dickens, whose novels often highlight class disparities.
  • George Orwell's 'Animal Farm' uses allegory to critique social inequalities and the dynamics of power among classes.
  • Harper Lee's 'To Kill a Mockingbird' explores racial inequality in the American South, showcasing the moral implications of social injustice.

Social Movements

  • The Civil Rights Movement in the USA aimed to end racial inequalities, advocating for equal treatment under the law.
  • Feminist movements have historically fought against gender inequality, seeking equal rights and opportunities for women.
  • The LGBTQ+ rights movement also addresses inequalities faced by individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity.

Science

  • Research shows that societies with high inequality often face social issues such as higher crime rates and lower overall health.
  • Studies in psychology suggest that perceived inequality can lead to lower social cohesion and increased anxiety among communities.
  • Economic theories, such as the Kuznets curve, propose a relationship between economic growth and inequality, positing that inequality may first increase and then decrease as a country develops.

Translations

Translations of the word "inequality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desigualdade

🇮🇳 असमानता

🇩🇪 Ungleichheit

🇮🇩 ketidaksetaraan

🇺🇦 нерівність

🇵🇱 nierówność

🇯🇵 不平等 (ふびょうどう)

🇫🇷 inégalité

🇪🇸 desigualdad

🇹🇷 eşitsizlik

🇰🇷 불평등 (bulpyeongdeung)

🇸🇦 عدم المساواة

🇨🇿 nerovnost

🇸🇰 nerovnosť

🇨🇳 不平等 (bù píngděng)

🇸🇮 neenakost

🇮🇸 ójöfnuður

🇰🇿 теңсіздік

🇬🇪 არათანასწორობა

🇦🇿 bərabərsizlik

🇲🇽 desigualdad

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,136 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.