double standard

noun

1

: a set of principles that applies differently and usually more rigorously to one group of people or circumstances than to another

especially : a code of morals that applies more severe standards of sexual behavior to women than to men

2

: bimetallism

Examples of double standard in a Sentence

She argued that society applies a double standard in dealing with women who commit adultery.

Recent Examples on the Web

One of the attendees brought up Obama’s remarks and asked Washington how to speak to people applying a double standard to Harris. —Francesca Chambers, USA TODAY, 28 Oct. 2024

The national media attention that Petito's case garnered was seen as a double standard in the Indigenous community with the countless missing and murdered people cases that have gone unsolved for decades and had never seen the type of awareness as Petito. —Arlyssa D. Becenti, The Arizona Republic, 24 Sep. 2024

Through its satirical lens, the musical lampoons the double standards that exist within the justice system, while also critiquing the way both parties manipulate the issue to score political points. —Michael Ghannoum, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 Oct. 2024

There’s a stark contrast in how the league’s Black and white players are perceived, and this double standard is damaging not only to the athletes but also to the league’s credibility in addressing issues of race and fairness. —Deanna Taylor, refinery29.com, 4 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

double standard

noun

: a set of standards that applies differently and usually more harshly to one group of people or circumstances than to another