# lopsided

/ˈɫɑpˈsaɪdɪd/ (US) · /lˈɒpsaɪdɪd/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. physically uneven

adjective · CEFR B2

having one side that is lower, smaller, or heavier than the other.

For teachers: physically asymmetrical or leaning to one side due to an uneven distribution of weight or mass.

- The cake looked a bit lopsided because it didn't rise evenly in the oven.
- The old cottage had a charming but lopsided appearance, with the roof sagging significantly toward the eastern garden wall.

Usage: Usually placed before the noun or after a linking verb like 'look' or 'be'.

### 2. unequal competition or bias

adjective · CEFR B2

not equal or balanced, especially in a game, a competition, or an argument.

For teachers: metaphorically unbalanced; used to describe competitions or situations where one party has an overwhelming advantage.

- The football match was very lopsided, with the home team winning six-zero.
- Critics argued that the debate was lopsided, as the moderator allowed one candidate significantly more time to address the audience.

Usage: Commonly used to describe scores, votes, or arguments.

## Examples

- He has a lopsided smile that makes him look friendly.
- The team won the game in a lopsided victory, scoring ten goals to their opponent's one.
- The city's rapid expansion has led to a lopsided distribution of resources, where the central district remains modern while the outer suburbs lack basic infrastructure.

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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.