# unfairly

/ənˈfɛɹɫi/ (US) · /ʌnfˈeəli/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unfairly
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

in a way that is not right or honest. You use this when someone is treated differently or worse than others for no good reason.

For teachers: in a manner that lacks justice, equity, or impartiality. Often describes the biased treatment of individuals or the unequal application of rules.

## Examples

- The teacher treated the students unfairly.
- Many employees felt they were treated unfairly when the bonus was only given to the management team.
- The legal system is often criticized when it appears to punish marginalized groups unfairly while allowing more affluent defendants to escape with minor fines.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He was unfairly of the decision." but "He was unhappy with the unfair decision." — Learners sometimes confuse the adverb 'unfairly' with the adjective 'unfair' or the noun 'unfairness'.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

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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.