Word
unequal
Phoneticsun·equal
US/əˈnikwəɫ/
UK/ʌnˈiːkwəl/
Definition
adj. not the same in size, amount, or value. You use this to describe things that are not fair or balanced.
adj. not equivalent in quantity, size, or value; lacking balance or symmetry in distribution or status.
Examples
“The two teams have an unequal number of players.”
“The report highlights the unequal distribution of wealth across different regions of the country.”
“Despite legal reforms, the two groups continue to face unequal access to healthcare and educational resources, perpetuating a cycle of systemic disadvantage.”
Examples
simple
“The two teams have an unequal number of players.”
contextual
“The report highlights the unequal distribution of wealth across different regions of the country.”
complex
“Despite legal reforms, the two groups continue to face unequal access to healthcare and educational resources, perpetuating a cycle of systemic disadvantage.”
Usage
Often used with the preposition 'to' when describing a person's inability to meet a challenge ('unequal to the task').
Real-World Examples
“Access to the new jobs was therefore highly unequal.” Etymology
From Middle English unequale, equivalent to un- + equal. Compare German unegal (“unlevel, uneven”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/unequal