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Unequally: meaning, definitions and examples

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unequally

 

[ʌn'iːkwəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

comparison

In an unequal or uneven manner.

Synonyms

disproportionately, inconsistently, unevenly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unequally

Use when referring to divisions or distributions that are not the same in size or quantity.

  • The inheritance was distributed unequally among the siblings.
  • The resources are unequally allocated between the departments.
unevenly

Use to describe a surface or situation that is not level or smooth.

  • The road is unevenly paved and full of potholes.
  • The cake was unevenly baked, with some parts overcooked.
disproportionately

Use to describe a situation where something is out of proportion, often implying a sense of unfairness.

  • The tax increase disproportionately affects low-income families.
  • Women are disproportionately represented in lower-paying jobs.
inconsistently

Use when something does not follow a regular or constant pattern.

  • The teacher graded the papers inconsistently, resulting in confusion.
  • The weather has been inconsistently affecting our plans.

Examples of usage

  • They distributed the resources unequally among the team members.
  • The wealth in the country is distributed unequally.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'unequally' comes from 'equal', which means the same, with the prefix 'un-' added to show the opposite.
  • Its first known use dates back to the 14th century, illustrating long-standing discussions about fairness and balance.

Mathematics

  • In math, when two sides of an equation are not the same, we say they are unequal, which often leads to more complex equations.
  • Unequal distribution of resources can affect economic stability and social justice in societies.

Psychology

  • Perceptions of being treated unequally can lead to feelings of resentment or frustration among individuals in social groups.
  • Studies show that people often compare themselves to others, and feeling unequal can impact self-esteem and mental health.

Literature

  • Themes of inequality are prevalent in classic literature, such as in 'Les Misérables', highlighting struggles against social injustice.
  • In many fairy tales, protagonists often face unequal treatment, which drives their journey towards self-empowerment.

Pop Culture

  • Many popular songs address themes of inequality, conveying strong emotional messages about love and social issues.
  • Movies often illustrate the conflict of unequal relationships, sparking discussions about power dynamics in society.

Translations

Translations of the word "unequally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desigualmente

🇮🇳 असमान रूप से

🇩🇪 ungleich

🇮🇩 tidak merata

🇺🇦 нерівномірно

🇵🇱 nierówno

🇯🇵 不平等に

🇫🇷 inégalement

🇪🇸 desigualmente

🇹🇷 eşit olmayan şekilde

🇰🇷 불균등하게

🇸🇦 بشكل غير متساوٍ

🇨🇿 nerovnoměrně

🇸🇰 nerovnomerne

🇨🇳 不均等地

🇸🇮 neenako

🇮🇸 ójafnt

🇰🇿 тең емес

🇬🇪 არათანაბრად

🇦🇿 bərabərsiz

🇲🇽 desigualmente

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,947, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.