English Reference
Adjective

unequal

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /əˈnikwəɫ/ UK /ʌnˈiːkwəl/ un·equal UK spelling unequals

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.


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').


From Middle English unequale, equivalent to un- + equal. Compare German unegal (“unlevel, uneven”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Middle English unequale
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated