# unfairness

/ənˈfɛɹnəs/ (US) · /ʌnfˈeənəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unfairness
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

the quality of being not fair or just. You use this to describe a situation where people are treated differently or where the rules are not followed properly.

For teachers: the quality or state of being unjust, biased, or not in accordance with established rules. Often used to describe systemic or situational inequality.

## Examples

- The players complained about the unfairness of the rules.
- Many employees expressed their frustration over the perceived unfairness of the promotion process.
- The documentary explores the systemic unfairness of the housing market, highlighting how historical policies continue to disadvantage certain communities today.

---

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.