unfair

adjective

un·​fair ˌən-ˈfer How to pronounce unfair (audio)
1
: marked by injustice, partiality, or deception : unjust
2
: not equitable in business dealings
unfairness noun

Examples of unfair in a Sentence

It's unfair for them to be allowed to leave early if we can't. It seems unfair to single her out for criticism. The company has been accused of unfair labor practices.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
For many years, Hamilton fought against the unfair restrictions put on drivers — including protesting against FIA race director’s Niels Wittich ban on drivers from wearing body piercings or neck chains during the race. Kanika Talwar, WWD, 22 Nov. 2024 But information in background checks can be inaccurate, raising unfair hurdles for renters, advocates say. Gretchen Morgenson, NBC News, 21 Nov. 2024 While health insurance and providers are meant to coexist in harmony to deliver care, smaller clinics are often left fighting unfair battles against these insurance companies. Ian Ye, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024 Section 301 tariffs are imposed on foreign goods from countries the U.S. deems to be engaging in unfair trade practices. Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for unfair 

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unfair was in 1700

Dictionary Entries Near unfair

Cite this Entry

“Unfair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfair. Accessed 5 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

unfair

adjective
un·​fair ˌən-ˈfa(ə)r How to pronounce unfair (audio)
ˈən-,
-ˈfe(ə)r
1
: not fair, honest, or just : unjust, dishonest
an unfair trial
2
: not fair in doing business
unfair to workers
unfairly adverb
unfairness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unfair

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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