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 Rather than limit the amount of money received from Social Security, the more equitable and effective way to extend the life of the trust fund is to remove the cap on income subject to contributions. Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 9 Apr. 2026 By building the infrastructure, visibility and global connections that African women filmmakers need to succeed, WIF LA and WIFT Africa are accelerating both cultural diplomacy and an equitable, sustainable industry for generations to come. Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 9 Apr. 2026 Her advocacy for breast health and equitable access to care, alongside her love for the Chiefs, led her to being the 2022 Chiefs’ Fan of the Year. Rashad Alexander, Kansas City Star, 8 Apr. 2026 Students with 504s and IEPs are entitled to certain accommodations, support, or adaptations to programming that can help make learning more accessible and equitable. Amanda Morin, Parents, 6 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for equitable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for equitable
Adjective
  • Credible, reliable and impartial evidence is the goal of legitimate science.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2026
  • Some impartial experts welcome the flexibility getting demonstrated during wartime.
    Eleanor Mueller, semafor.com, 8 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The three companies plan to become equal partners in Cellcentric, a venture focused on fuel-cell systems for heavy-duty trucks and industrial vehicles.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 12 Apr. 2026
  • Before Congress changed the law in 1997, homeowners could defer taxes on home sales by purchasing another house of equal or greater value.
    Liz Weston, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Those referrals are well-intentioned, but they are not always grounded in objective performance metrics.
    Mathias P. Bostrom, Fortune, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Lam said Vietnam would regard developing relations with China as its objective need, strategic choice and topic priority.
    ABC News, ABC News, 15 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Equitable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/equitable. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.

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