What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unequal
Example
The distribution of wealth in the country is unequal. [unequal: adjective]
Example
The two teams were unequal in terms of experience and skill. [unequal: adjective]
uneven
Example
Be careful walking on the uneven ground. [uneven: adjective]
Example
The quality of the product was uneven across different batches. [uneven: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Uneven is more commonly used than unequal in everyday language. Uneven is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while unequal is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unequal and uneven?
Both unequal and uneven can be used in formal and informal contexts, but unequal may be more formal due to its association with social and economic issues.
