unjust

adjective

un·​just ˌən-ˈjəst 

1

: characterized by injustice : unfair

received an unjust punishment

2

archaic : dishonest, faithless

unjustly adverb

unjustness

ˌən-ˈjəs(t)-nəs 

noun

Examples of unjust in a Sentence

The convict received an unjust sentence.

Recent Examples on the Web

This unjust decision must be overturned by the Supreme Court in its entirety. — Jack Birle, The Washington Examiner, 7 Aug. 2026

Recommendations from the Russell City Reparative Justice Project were used as a framework to establish a joint redress fund for former residents and their descendants, one that could finally compensate them for the county’s unjust policies. — Chase Hunter, Mercury News, 7 Aug. 2026

This may be especially true when demands to condemn Mangione appear to ignore inequities within an American health insurance system perceived as corrupt and unjust. — Evan Clarkson, The Conversation, 6 Aug. 2026

Some of this erosion is a result of general war fatigue (and fatigue with providing foreign assistance), but support can decline more quickly if Americans consider the partner’s conduct in war unjust. — Dafna H. Rand, Foreign Affairs, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for unjust

• adjust
• combust
• discussed
• disgust
• distrust
• entrust
• intrust
• mistrust
• nonplussed
• robust
• sawdust
• stardust

Kids Definition

unjust

adjective

un·​just ˌən-ˈjəst 

ˈən-

: not just : unfair

an unjust way of picking the winner

unjustly adverb

unjustness

-ˈjəs(t)-nəs 

noun

Legal Definition

unjust

adjective

un·​just

: characterized by injustice : deficient in justice and fairness

an unjust sentence

unjustly adverb

unjustness noun