Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective equitable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of equitable are dispassionate, fair, impartial, just, objective, and unbiased. While all these words mean "free from favor toward either or any side," equitable implies a less rigorous standard than just and usually suggests equal treatment of all concerned.

the equitable distribution of the property

Where would dispassionate be a reasonable alternative to equitable?

The synonyms dispassionate and equitable are sometimes interchangeable, but dispassionate suggests freedom from the influence of strong feeling and often implies cool or even cold judgment.

a dispassionate summation of the facts

When might fair be a better fit than equitable?

While the synonyms fair and equitable are close in meaning, fair implies a proper balance of conflicting interests.

a fair decision

When is it sensible to use impartial instead of equitable?

While in some cases nearly identical to equitable, impartial stresses an absence of favor or prejudice.

an impartial third party

In what contexts can just take the place of equitable?

In some situations, the words just and equitable are roughly equivalent. However, just implies an exact following of a standard of what is right and proper.

a just settlement of territorial claims

When would objective be a good substitute for equitable?

The words objective and equitable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, objective stresses a tendency to view events or persons as apart from oneself and one's own interest or feelings.

I can't be objective about my own child

When can unbiased be used instead of equitable?

Although the words unbiased and equitable have much in common, unbiased implies even more strongly an absence of all prejudice.

your unbiased opinion

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of equitable Buyers’ lawyers argued in court that the case should have been managed as an equitable proceeding and not as a semi-bankruptcy. Linda Robertson, Miami Herald, 2 Mar. 2025 Stacy Smith, the founder of the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, which uses research and advocacy to encourage equitable changes in Hollywood, says that the guidelines are simply too easy to meet. Kalia Richardson, Rolling Stone, 2 Mar. 2025 Silver and other league executives are extremely knowledgeable about the business and law of the NBA and can draw from past team disputes in crafting an equitable and consistent resolution. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 2 Mar. 2025 Provide a solid mix of informal and formal mentorship programs for a work culture that empowers employees and creates a more equitable and fulfilling workplace for all. Tara Fitzpatrick-Navarro, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for equitable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for equitable
Adjective
  • There was no sign of keeping things impartial for Shah, who as the ICC chief is meant to be independent and act without bias.
    Tristan Lavalette, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025
  • There must be prompt, transparent and impartial investigations into all the killings and other violations, and those responsible must be held to account, in line with international law norms and standards.
    William Lambers, Newsweek, 10 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Of equal concern is the possibility that China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia will use their wartime cooperation as a model for opportunistic coordination in the future.
    Christopher S. Chivvis, Foreign Affairs, 18 Mar. 2025
  • That's thanks to the shock-absorbing foam that's brilliantly placed to ensure equal weight distribution with every stride (aka: no sore heels, achy toes, or stinging arches ruining your day).
    Alexis Benveniste, Travel + Leisure, 18 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • That offers a more objective way to assess risk than your emotional reaction to losing money on investment.
    Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Not only will this proposal protect the homebuyers, but will preserve the reputation and integrity of the Realtor and seller by ensuring that the transaction is in part based upon objective information from a licensed professional home inspector.
    Dean Pedon, Hartford Courant, 17 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Equitable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/equitable. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on equitable

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