unfair

adjective

un·​fair ˌən-ˈfer How to pronounce unfair (audio)
1
: marked by injustice, partiality, or deception : unjust
2
: not equitable in business dealings
unfairness noun

Examples of unfair in a Sentence

It's unfair for them to be allowed to leave early if we can't. It seems unfair to single her out for criticism. The company has been accused of unfair labor practices.
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.
What was done to you was unjust, unfair, racist and wrong. Gayla Cawley, Boston Herald, 23 Sep. 2025 The government was able to convince the court that Google's control of Ad Manager gave it an unfair advantage that boosted its own services, but is a breakup the proper remedy? Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 22 Sep. 2025 That has raised questions from fans—and executives around the league—over whether Brady can fairly handle both responsibilities, or whether his access as broadcaster could give Las Vegas an unfair advantage. Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 21 Sep. 2025 On Thursday, the Actors’ Equity Association, which represents Casa Bonita’s unionized performers, filed an unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board due to changes with the cast. Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 19 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unfair

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unfair was in 1700

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Cite this Entry

“Unfair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfair. Accessed 23 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

unfair

adjective
un·​fair ˌən-ˈfa(ə)r How to pronounce unfair (audio)
ˈən-,
-ˈfe(ə)r
1
: not fair, honest, or just : unjust, dishonest
an unfair trial
2
: not fair in doing business
unfair to workers
unfairly adverb
unfairness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unfair

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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