unequal - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
unequal Word Meanings
- not the same in quantity, degree, or value
- not equal or equivalent
- disparate in quality or status
unequal Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
unequal Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ʌnˈiːkwəl/
US
/ʌnˈikwəl/
unequal Word Etymology
un- = not + equal = identical in quantity or measure; Originated from Latin 'aequalis', through Old French 'inégal'; Visualize two scales that do not balance, signifying disparity.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Unequal describes things that are not the same in quantity, degree, or value, and it can also refer to people or situations that are not on the same level. It emphasizes disparity rather than simply difference, and you’ll see it used with nouns like pay, distribution, treatment, or opportunities. The opposite is equal or equivalent, and the idea of imbalance is often visualized as scales that don’t balance. The prefix un- marks the negation, which helps learners remember that unequal means a lack of balance, not just a small variation between items.
Usage Reminders
- Use unequal before a noun (e. g., unequal pay, unequal opportunities).
- You can say 'The results are unequal' after a linking verb.
- Avoid using 'different' when you mean imbalance; 'unequal' emphasizes imbalance.
- Common collocations include treatment, pay, distribution, and opportunities.
- Be careful with 'unequal to' vs 'not equal to' in numeric comparisons.
Common Misconceptions
- Unequal does not equal different; it emphasizes imbalance, not just difference.
- Do not say 'The results are not unequal' to mean they are equal.
- Avoid using unequal to describe people in a moral sense; use fair or unfair instead when appropriate.
- Think of unequal as a state of imbalance, not a slight variation.
- Beware of confusing unequal with unequally; the latter is an adverb describing how something is done.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, unequal is often used to stress imbalance in quantity, status, or quality, not merely a small difference; learners tend to overgeneralize it to describe any mismatch and may confuse it with 'not the same' when the emphasis is on balance.
Learning Tips
- Visualize two scales that do not balance to remember imbalance.
- Pair unequal with concrete nouns like pay, opportunities, or distribution.
- Practice with both predicative and attributive positions (The results are unequal; unequal opportunities).
- Contrast with equal, equivalent, and differ from to deepen understanding.
- Learn common collocations: unequal treatment, unequal pay, unequal distribution, unequal status.
- Avoid using unequal to describe minor differences; use 'different' instead.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'unequal'?
A.Different
B.Happy
C.Fast
D.Blue
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'unequal' correctly?
A.She felt unequal after receiving the award.
B.The sky was blue unequal.
C.They ran fast unequal the finish line.
D.He was unequal to see his friends.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'unequal'?
A.Slow
B.Sad
C.Equal
D.Green
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'unequal'?
A.Low
B.Angry
C.Fair
D.Yellow
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'unequal' applies?
A.Sunny weather
B.School grading system
C.Birthday party planning
D.Sports competition
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