Definition of equitablenext

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 In education, workplaces, and government, efforts designed to foster belonging—mentorship programs, community-building initiatives, equitable STEM pathways—are being scaled back, renamed, or removed. Reshma Saujani, Time, 7 Jan. 2026 Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have long campaigned on addressing exorbitant costs and equitable access. Sorelle Wyckoff Gaynor, The Conversation, 7 Jan. 2026 Leo’s homily called for peace and equitable redistribution of resources, signaling his pontificate can now advance his own agenda after months consumed by the celebration. Nicole Winfield, Los Angeles Times, 6 Jan. 2026 According to Instagram posts from Brown's consulting company, Roundtree's priorities include equitable economic development, parks, investing in youth, and a justice system focused on prevention and rehabilitation. Claudia Levens, jsonline.com, 6 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for equitable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for equitable
Adjective
  • This is essential to ensure the impartial, neutral, and independent delivery of aid throughout the whole of Gaza.
    David Brennan, ABC News, 6 Jan. 2026
  • Defense attorney Leah Gillis countered that sequestering jurors would chill candid discussion and signal that open conversations about bias are not tolerated, undermining the goal of an impartial jury.
    Ryan Macasero, Mercury News, 6 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • As a result, Noel said, Haiti is often treated less as an equal partner in regional integration than as a vehicle through which CARICOM can project influence internationally.
    Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 13 Jan. 2026
  • The show is equal parts investigation into the craft of writing and conversation about the topics of an author’s work.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • An objective skills test can help benchmark the AI engineer against the performance expected from human counterparts.
    Paul Eremenko, Fortune, 14 Jan. 2026
  • All of this feels either cut off or elaborated on in a magical thinking way; nothing feels objective.
    Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 13 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Equitable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/equitable. Accessed 16 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on equitable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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