Definition of differentialnext
as in discriminatory
favoring, applying, or being unequal treatment of different classes of people did away with differential pay scales for men and women doing the same work

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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 differential The platform also incorporates integrated suspension and supports payloads exceeding 661 pounds (300 kilograms), while alternative differential-drive configurations are available for rough outdoor terrain. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 3 July 2026 The sample was selected by The New York Times in multiple steps to account for differential telephone coverage, nonresponse and significant variation in the productivity of telephone numbers by state. New York Times, 1 July 2026 Those European sides knew that a German victory by no more than 2-0 would advance both teams based on goal differential. Pete Grathoff june 10, Kansas City Star, 10 June 2026 While that ruling pertained only to admissions, the administration last winter notified schools that any differential treatment based on race was unconstitutional. Annie Ma, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026 If Argentina slips up at any point in the group stage before this match, expect the score to be run up to catch up on goal differential. Nick Harris june 5, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 June 2026 The truck also includes a 190-A alternator, rear differential lock, trailer brakes, reverse camera and Sync 4 infotainment system. New Atlas, 4 June 2026 While that ruling pertained only to admissions, the administration last winter notified schools that any differential consideration based on race was unconstitutional. ABC News, 3 June 2026 The comparable American sports term is point differential. Tushaar Kuthiala, Encyclopedia Britannica, 1 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for differential
Adjective
  • An appeals court ruled this week that the First Amendment’s freedom of speech principle protects the right of academics in Florida to discuss topics in class that some might view as discriminatory or even offensive.
    The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 10 July 2026
  • The algorithmic discrimination provisions are gone, and there is nothing left in the statute that requires developers to monitor or adjust their outputs for discriminatory patterns.
    Stefani Langehennig, The Conversation, 9 July 2026
Adjective
  • And it all might be taken away by absurd, unfair officiating.
    Ian Miller OutKick, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
  • Mora has accused the company of unfair and fraudulent business practices.
    Claire Rush, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Differential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/differential. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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