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 The Board of Regents now wants a revamp, to expand ways for students to demonstrate competency in a simpler, more equitable system. — Jennifer McLogan, CBS News, 15 Sep. 2026 The equitable, commission-free event showcases hundreds of works by 53 Black visual artists representing the African diaspora. — Michelle Pemberton, IndyStar, 10 Sep. 2026 Technology can accelerate data modeling, but human governance determines whether those decisions remain equitable, logical and defensible. — Aniela Unguresan, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2026 School sports are supposed to be equitable and allow broad participation but have seen cuts across the board due to budget restrictions. — Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 7 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for equitable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for equitable
Adjective
  • Hardly an impartial judge of his own life, the Unabomber’s stated willingness to serve as the face of a revolutionary movement is chilling.
    — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 24 Sep. 2026
  • Mohip told the judge that city ethics rules require only that zoning board members be impartial in their decisions.
    — Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 10 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The result is a diverse take on itameshi — think mentaiko spaghetti, sansho-spiked cacio e pepe, panko Milanese and yuzu spritzes — served with equal parts Italian dolce vita and Japanese hospitality.
    — Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2026
  • His lawyers say the evidence instead showed Rivera, Nuhfer and their associates operating as equal partners, with payments divided equally and participants consulting one another rather than Rivera directing them.
    — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 29 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Use the objective points as ways to innovate on your idea and deliver a product that meets the needs of your audience.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026
  • Something else to consider is that teacher evaluation and student grades are not objective criteria.
    — Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 24 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Equitable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/equitable. Accessed 30 Sep. 2026.

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