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 Zay was seeking immediate equitable relief and asked to be reinstated as commissioner while it was determined if his removal complied with Indiana Code. Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026 They are further accused of common law fraud and equitable fraud. Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 14 Aug. 2026 According to Mendoza-Lujan, these bills are part of an essential push towards safe, equitable living conditions for immigrants. Sofia Williams, Sacbee.com, 12 Aug. 2026 Councilwoman Joi Mayo said there was a lack of youth opportunities in her west Charlotte district and questioned whether the city had equitable programming. Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for equitable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for equitable
Adjective
  • Judge Debra McCaslin ruled last month that the retrial cannot take place anywhere in the 14th Circuit, finding that Murdaugh would be unable to receive a fair and impartial trial in Colleton County, where the original trial occurred.
    ABC News, ABC News, 8 Sep. 2026
  • The state attorney in Tallahassee must file criminal charges against all involved in this public fraud and fiasco, if the scales of justice are truly impartial.
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 7 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • At the time, NBA commissioner Adam Silver declared the change was intended to signal that the WNBA held equal stature with other major professional leagues.
    Jerry Brewer, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
  • Australia Prime Minister $448,819 A$239,270 parliamentary base plus a PM supplement equal to 160% of base.
    Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 9 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Property managers still need objective, consistent standards to evaluate applicants and reduce risk.
    Nathan Miller, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2026
  • While the class was divided between protectionists and free-traders, the teacher gave no indication of his own views, and the textbook presented objective facts along with arguments from both sides.
    Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 1 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Equitable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/equitable. Accessed 14 Sep. 2026.

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