Neutrality: meaning, definitions and examples

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neutrality

 

[ njuːˈtræl.ɪ.ti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

international relations

The state of not supporting or helping either side in a conflict, disagreement, etc.; impartiality.

Synonyms

fairness, impartiality, unbiasedness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
neutrality

This word is best suited when describing a state of not taking any side in a conflict or decision, or when remaining uninvolved in a situation. It is often used in political, diplomatic, or conflict resolution contexts.

  • The country declared its neutrality during the war.
  • Journalists strive for neutrality when reporting on sensitive issues.
impartiality

This word is ideal when emphasizing the absence of bias or favoritism, especially in professional or judicial contexts. It is often used when it's important to highlight an objective and fair approach.

  • The committee's impartiality was fundamental to the credibility of their findings.
  • Impartiality is crucial for a fair trial.
unbiasedness

Unbiasedness is similar to impartiality and usually used to underscore the absence of any form of bias or prejudice. It can be employed in contexts that require objectivity, such as scientific research or media reporting.

  • The study's unbiasedness was validated by peer reviews.
  • Her unbiasedness made her a respected referee in the competition.
fairness

Fairness should be used when discussing the quality of making judgments that are free from discrimination or favoritism. It is appropriate in contexts where equal treatment and justice are key, such as in the workplace or legal settings.

  • Employees appreciated the fairness of the company's hiring policies.
  • The judge's fairness was evident in her balanced decisions.

Examples of usage

  • Journalists are expected to maintain neutrality and report objectively.
  • Neutrality is crucial in negotiations to ensure fair outcomes.
  • The country declared its neutrality in the ongoing dispute between the two nations.
Context #2 | Noun

emotional situations

The state of not taking sides or showing favoritism; detachment.

Synonyms

detachment, impartiality, objectivity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
neutrality

This term is often used in political, international, or conflict situations where a person, country, or organization does not take sides.

  • Switzerland is known for its neutrality in international conflicts.
  • The mediator’s neutrality was essential in reaching an agreement.
detachment

This word is frequently used to describe a personal or emotional distance from a situation or person, often to remain unbiased.

  • Her detachment from the group allowed her to make an unbiased decision.
  • He maintained a professional detachment while assessing the project.
impartiality

Use this word to emphasize fairness and a lack of bias, particularly in contexts like legal decisions, journalism, or refereeing.

  • A judge must always act with impartiality.
  • The journalist was praised for their impartiality in reporting the news.
objectivity

This term is utilized when discussing the importance of basing opinions and actions on facts rather than personal feelings or biases, common in academic, scientific, and professional settings.

  • Researchers must maintain objectivity in their studies.
  • Objectivity is crucial for fair and accurate reporting.

Examples of usage

  • It's important to maintain neutrality when mediating a conflict.
  • She struggled to maintain neutrality while listening to both sides of the argument.

Translations

Translations of the word "neutrality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 neutralidade

🇮🇳 तटस्थता

🇩🇪 Neutralität

🇮🇩 netralitas

🇺🇦 нейтральність

🇵🇱 neutralność

🇯🇵 中立性 (ちゅうりつせい)

🇫🇷 neutralité

🇪🇸 neutralidad

🇹🇷 tarafsızlık

🇰🇷 중립성 (중립성)

🇸🇦 حياد

🇨🇿 neutralita

🇸🇰 neutralita

🇨🇳 中立 (zhōnglì)

🇸🇮 nevtralnost

🇮🇸 hlutleysi

🇰🇿 бейтараптық

🇬🇪 ნეიტრალიტეტი

🇦🇿 neytrallıq

🇲🇽 neutralidad

Etymology

The word 'neutrality' originated from the Latin word 'neutralis', which means 'of neutral nature'. The concept of neutrality has been prevalent in international relations for centuries, with countries adopting a neutral stance to avoid involvement in conflicts. Neutrality is often associated with principles of fairness, impartiality, and non-interference. The importance of neutrality in various contexts, such as diplomacy, mediation, and journalism, highlights its significance in promoting peace and objectivity.

See also: neutralization, neutralize, neutrally.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,573 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.