Unfair Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ก
unfair
[สnหfษr ]
Definitions
treatment
Not based on or behaving according to the principles of equality and justice; unjust.
Synonyms
biased, discriminatory, inequitable, unjust.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
unfair |
Used in general situations where something is not right or just.
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unjust |
Used to describe actions or situations that are morally wrong and unfair.
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inequitable |
Used in formal contexts to describe something that is unfair or unjust, especially in distribution or treatment.
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biased |
Used when someone has a preconceived opinion that influences their actions or decisions.
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discriminatory |
Used in situations involving unfair treatment of people based on certain characteristics like race, gender, or age.
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Examples of usage
- The decision was deemed unfair by the majority of the employees.
- She felt that the grading system was unfair to students who struggled with testing.
situation
Not in accordance with the rules or standards; dishonest or unethical.
Synonyms
dishonest, partial, unethical, unjust.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
unfair |
Use this when talking about a situation where things are not balanced or equal, such as someone being given an advantage over others without a valid reason.
|
dishonest |
Use this when referring to someone who is lying, cheating, or not telling the truth.
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unethical |
Use this to describe actions or behavior that are morally wrong or against accepted standards of behavior, especially in professional settings.
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unjust |
Use this when describing something that is not fair or morally right, often in the context of laws, rules, or social systems.
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partial |
Use this when there is a bias or when someone favors one side over another, often in an unfair manner.
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Examples of usage
- It was unfair of him to take credit for her work.
- The referee's biased decisions made the game unfair.
manner
In a way that is not right or just.
Synonyms
dishonestly, partial, unethically, unjustly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
unfair |
This word is appropriate when describing situations that are not just or equitable, often in a general or everyday context. It conveys a sense of somebody being treated in a way that is not right or deserved.
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dishonestly |
This word is used when describing actions that involve cheating or lying. It implies a lack of honesty and is negative in nature.
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unjustly |
This word is appropriate for situations where actions or outcomes are not only unfair but also violate principles of justice or legal standards. It has a strong negative implication.
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unethically |
This word is best used when actions go against moral principles or professional standards. It has a negative connotation and usually involves actions seen as morally wrong.
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partial |
This word is suitable when someone shows favoritism or bias towards a particular person or thing. It suggests that decisions or views are not objective.
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Examples of usage
- He played unfairly by constantly bending the rules.
- She was accused of competing unfairly against her opponents.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'unfair' dates back to the 14th century, originating from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'fair,' which comes from Old English meaning 'beautiful or pleasant.'
- In medieval courts, justice was often determined by the fairness of trials, and being unfair in judgment was looked down upon.
- Legal systems have evolved to combat unfair practices, notably in the concepts of due process and fair trials.
Psychology
- Studies show that perceptions of unfairness can lead to feelings of anger and resentment, influencing social behavior.
- The concept of fairness is a critical element in developing trust and cooperation within groups.
- Children as young as three can demonstrate an understanding of fairness, reacting negatively to unequal distributions of resources.
Literature
- Many classic stories depict themes of unfairness, such as 'The Tortured Artist,' where protagonists struggle against societal injustices.
- Authors like Charles Dickens often highlight unfair societal structures in their novels, such as in 'A Tale of Two Cities'.
- Poetry frequently reflects on the notion of unfairness, exploring personal and societal dilemmas through emotional language.
Pop Culture
- Movies and shows often depict the theme of unfairness to build conflict, such as in 'The Hunger Games', where the oppression of districts reveals deep societal unfairness.
- Songs like 'Fight the Power' by Public Enemy address issues of unfair treatment and inequality, resonating with listeners' sense of justice.
- The concept often features in childrenโs cartoons where characters seek to restore fairness, like in 'Toy Story' when Woody feels unfairly replaced by Buzz Lightyear.
Sociology
- Unfair treatment can manifest in multiple forms, including discrimination based on race, gender, or socioeconomic status, affecting social cohesion.
- Social movements throughout history, such as the Civil Rights Movement, have centered around fighting unfair practices in society.
- Studies indicate that individuals belonging to marginalized groups often experience higher levels of unfair treatment, leading to broader social implications.
Origin of 'unfair'
The word 'unfair' originated in the mid-16th century, derived from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'fair' meaning 'just or equitable.' Over time, the term has come to be widely used in various contexts to describe situations, treatment, or actions that are perceived as unjust, dishonest, or unethical.
See also: fair, fairly, fairness, fairway, fairy, unfairly, unfairness.