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 An open letter signed by 40 employees was released yesterday, and lays out some of the new union’s core principles and commitments, include equitable pay, stable and comprehensive benefits, job security, and more of a say in the organization’s policies and strategies. James Folta, Literary Hub, 3 Mar. 2026 The signature event, produced by the women who make up Harvesters, brought together about 350 guests whose generosity helps meet the county’s rising need for dignified, equitable and consistent access to nutritious food. Magda Liszewska, Oc Register, 2 Mar. 2026 Executive Director Ty Kovach noted that the acquisition advances the agency’s mission to provide equitable access to nature, particularly in underserved parts of the county. Yadira Sanchez Olson, Chicago Tribune, 2 Mar. 2026 While there was a temptation to read into the applause for each film nominee, akin to the Academy Nominees Luncheon, each person got a pretty equitable amount of praise. Marcus Jones, IndieWire, 2 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for equitable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for equitable
Adjective
  • However, the Chinese are not impartial.
    Jennifer Pak, NPR, 8 Mar. 2026
  • Our reviews are impartial and our opinions are our own.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 6 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The backstory Under Canvas made a name for itself during the pandemic thanks to its ability to create upscale camping experiences that provided equal doses of fresh air and community during a time of social distancing.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Mar. 2026
  • Coverage is not equal state to state.
    Anna Moeslein, Glamour, 9 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Programs vary from developing an affordable housing toolkit to help developers access resources and build homes to adopting objective design standards that streamline the development approval process.
    Sierra Lopez, Mercury News, 11 Mar. 2026
  • But those opinions should be based on an objective analysis on which all parties can agree.
    Mark Lamster Architecture Critic, Dallas Morning News, 11 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Equitable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/equitable. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

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