What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inequality
Example
The country has been struggling with income inequality for years. [inequality: noun]
Example
There is a growing concern about gender inequality in the workplace. [inequality: noun]
unfairness
Example
It's unfair that some students get extra time on the exam while others don't. [unfairness: noun]
Example
The judge's ruling was criticized for its unfairness towards the defendant. [unfairness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inequality is a more common word than unfairness in academic and policy contexts, while unfairness is more commonly used in everyday language to describe personal experiences of injustice or bias.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inequality and unfairness?
Inequality is a more formal word than unfairness, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
