unjust

adjective

un·​just ˌən-ˈjəst How to pronounce unjust (audio)
1
: characterized by injustice : unfair
2
archaic : dishonest, faithless
unjustly adverb
unjustness noun

Examples of unjust in a Sentence

The convict received an unjust sentence.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Fiction itself is utopian, too, a space where the unjust logic of inheritance and privilege can be questioned, rearranged or reversed. Nell Stevens august 4, Literary Hub, 4 Aug. 2025 Due process El Centro, a nonprofit that serves Hispanic families in the Kansas City area, condemned the Kansas raids as unjust and dehumanizing. Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 2 Aug. 2025 But this brings around the third way that Israel’s war-making seems currently unjust. Ross Douthat, Mercury News, 31 July 2025 The suit alleges retaliation, violation of due process and equal protection rights, unjust taking without compensation, and conspiracy to violate civil rights. Paul Egan, Freep.com, 31 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for unjust

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unjust was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Unjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unjust. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

unjust

adjective
un·​just ˌən-ˈjəst How to pronounce unjust (audio)
ˈən-
: not just : unfair
an unjust way of picking the winner
unjustly adverb
unjustness noun

Legal Definition

unjust

adjective
un·​just
: characterized by injustice : deficient in justice and fairness
an unjust sentence
unjustly adverb
unjustness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unjust

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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