unjust

adjective

un·​just ˌən-ˈjəst How to pronounce unjust (audio)
Synonyms of unjustnext
1
: characterized by injustice : unfair
received an unjust punishment
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.
Facing a brutal system throughout her incarceration – compounded by her transgender identity and HIV-positive diagnosis – Dee taught herself the law from within the prison library, working to fight an unjust system for herself and others. Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 21 Apr. 2026 To see that relationship misrepresented so publicly has been both painful and profoundly unjust. Rachel Desantis, PEOPLE, 20 Apr. 2026 Lawler said there are differences of opinion on immigration policy, but that Haitian immigrants have become vital to his community and forcing them out would be unjust and unwise. Lisa Mascaro, Los Angeles Times, 16 Apr. 2026 Yes, the injustice done to Yarris was unjust. Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 16 Apr. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unjust. Accessed 24 Apr. 2026.

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

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