What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fair
Example
The judge made a fair ruling based on the evidence presented. [fair: adjective]
Example
The carnival was a fun and fair experience for all ages. [fair: noun]
Example
She has fair skin and blonde hair. [fair: adjective]
impartial
Example
The jury was instructed to be impartial and consider only the evidence presented. [impartial: adjective]
Example
The manager was praised for being impartial in his treatment of all employees. [impartial: adjective]
Example
As a journalist, it's important to remain impartial and report the facts objectively. [impartial: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fair is more commonly used than impartial in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. However, impartial is more formal and often used in legal or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fair and impartial?
Impartial is more formal than fair, and is often used in legal or professional contexts where neutrality and objectivity are important. Fair is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.