C1nounformal1K

Inequality

UK /["/ˌɪnɪˈkwɒləti/"]/US /["/ˌɪnɪˈkwɑːləti/"]/

Definition

the unfair difference between groups of people in society, when some have more wealth, status or opportunities than others

In simple words: A situation where things are not equal or fair.

Examples

  • The government is working to reduce economic inequality between different social groups.
  • Gender inequality remains a significant issue in many countries around the world.
  • In mathematics, an inequality expresses the relationship between two values when they are not equal.
  • The inequality x > 5 means that x can be any number greater than 5.
  • Inequality in wealth distribution has led to social unrest in several regions.
  • Solving the inequality involves finding all values of y such that y ≤ 10.
  • Inequality in educational opportunities limits the potential of many children.
  • The concept of inequality is essential in various fields such as economics and mathematics.

Usage notes

Used in discussions about social, economic, or educational fairness. Often seen in academic or policy contexts; avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'in-equal-ity' as in 'not equal'.

Collocations

  • great
  • gross
  • substantial
  • cause
  • create
  • lead to
  • exist
  • arise from something
  • be based on something
  • inequality between
  • inequality in
  • inequalities of power, wealth, etc.
  • a pattern of inequality

Synonyms

  • disparity
  • imbalance
  • inequity
  • discrepancy
  • division

Antonyms

  • equality
  • fairness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'equal' vs 'inequal'.
  • Using it in singular form when it’s not countable.
  • Mixing up the meaning with 'inequity', which has a slightly different connotation.