# disparity

/dɪˈspɛɹəti/ (US) · /dɪspˈæɹɪti/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/disparity
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. inequality

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

a big difference between groups of people, especially when one group has much more money or power than another.

For teachers: the state of being unequal, particularly regarding socio-economic status, wealth, or opportunity. Often uncountable in this abstract sense.

- There is a huge disparity between the rich and the poor in this city.
- Economists are concerned that the growing wealth disparity could lead to social instability if the government does not intervene.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'between' or 'in'.

### 2. inconsistency

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a difference between two things that should be the same, like two different reports about the same event.

For teachers: a lack of similarity or equality between two or more facts, figures, or claims. Countable in this sense.

- The accountant found a disparity between the two bank statements.
- The researchers noted a significant disparity in the results of the two trials, suggesting that the initial data may have been compromised.

## Examples

- There is a big disparity in pay between men and women.
- The report highlights the growing disparity in educational resources between urban and rural schools.
- The widening disparity in global wealth distribution has become a central concern for international policymakers seeking sustainable economic growth.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.