Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective equitable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of equitable are dispassionate, fair, impartial, just, objective, and unbiased. While all these words mean "free from favor toward either or any side," equitable implies a less rigorous standard than just and usually suggests equal treatment of all concerned.

the equitable distribution of the property

Where would dispassionate be a reasonable alternative to equitable?

The synonyms dispassionate and equitable are sometimes interchangeable, but dispassionate suggests freedom from the influence of strong feeling and often implies cool or even cold judgment.

a dispassionate summation of the facts

When might fair be a better fit than equitable?

While the synonyms fair and equitable are close in meaning, fair implies a proper balance of conflicting interests.

a fair decision

When is it sensible to use impartial instead of equitable?

While in some cases nearly identical to equitable, impartial stresses an absence of favor or prejudice.

an impartial third party

In what contexts can just take the place of equitable?

In some situations, the words just and equitable are roughly equivalent. However, just implies an exact following of a standard of what is right and proper.

a just settlement of territorial claims

When would objective be a good substitute for equitable?

The words objective and equitable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, objective stresses a tendency to view events or persons as apart from oneself and one's own interest or feelings.

I can't be objective about my own child

When can unbiased be used instead of equitable?

Although the words unbiased and equitable have much in common, unbiased implies even more strongly an absence of all prejudice.

your unbiased opinion

Example Sentences

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 equitable Unexpected new initiatives from these newcomers could shift perceptions of space from something to dominate and possess to something more inclusive, equitable and democratic. Tony Milligan, Space.com, 3 Aug. 2025 The mental load was never equitable in her relationship, Connell said. Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 1 Aug. 2025 Through powerful storytelling, grant support, scholarships and creative awards, Gucci Changemakers strives to drive meaningful change, fostering a positive impact while creating a more inclusive and equitable world. Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 31 July 2025 Late director Albert Maysles founded the MDC to foster documentary films that spotlight the push for a more equitable world. Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, 28 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for equitable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for equitable
Adjective
  • The vice president would have been better advised to stand for fair and impartial maps in the Hoosier State and beyond.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 10 Aug. 2025
  • The debate over whether algorithms can ever be truly impartial has been simmering for years; what’s new is the urgency to move from philosophical musing to enforceable standards.
    Jason Snyder, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • There's another pathway of equal concern, Brown said.
    Natalie Eilbert, jsonline.com, 7 Aug. 2025
  • The price cap was rolled out to equal parts skepticism and hopefulness that the policy would stave off Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.
    Leo Schwartz, Fortune, 7 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Raising responsible kids is pretty much an objective win in most parents' books.
    DeVonne Goode, Parents, 6 Aug. 2025
  • Start by agreeing on objective KPIs, such as retention or engagement, not just revenue.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Equitable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/equitable. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on equitable

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