a case of double standards

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a case of double standards" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where different principles are applied to similar situations, often in a way that is perceived as unfair. Example: "The decision to penalize one employee while overlooking the same behavior in another is a clear case of double standards."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Isn't this a case of double standards?Good questions, on the face of it.

The Economist

It appears to me a case of double standards that requires clarification, not the conviction of a scapegoat.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Complaining that the City will be hit by a European FTT is a clear case of double standards - almost half of the £3bn revenue from our own FTT, the stamp duty on shares, comes from non-UK residents".

The Guardian - Business

We shall continue our pressure campaign against it in this case, to expose what would be accurately described as a textbook case of double standards," said Barghouti.

The Guardian

Milani: Yes, that's one of the more remarkable cases of double standards.

HuffPost

A case of double your money?

BBC

The case raised accusations of double standards at a time when the press is at the centre of the largest criminal investigation in British history over practices which include the hiring of corrupt private eyes.

Independent

I sense a whiff of double standards.

The Guardian - Opinion

"There is a smell of double standards".

The Guardian

At its heart, this is a matter of double standards.

The Guardian

Rooney clearly believes he is a victim of double standards.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a case of double standards", clearly articulate the two situations being compared to highlight the inconsistency.

Common error

Avoid vague accusations. Instead, provide specific examples to support your claim that "a case of double standards" exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a case of double standards" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object to identify or describe a situation characterized by inconsistent or unfair application of rules. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a case of double standards" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote situations where inconsistent and unfair rules are applied. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and identifies its common use in News & Media. To use it effectively, clearly specify the two compared situations, avoiding vague accusations and ensuring your audience understands the implied inequity. While phrases like "an instance of hypocrisy" or "unequal treatment" offer similar meanings, understanding the nuances between them can lead to more precise and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

double standard at play

Directly states that a double standard is in effect.

an instance of hypocrisy

Emphasizes the contradiction between what someone says and what they do.

two sets of rules

Suggests that different rules apply to different groups.

unequal treatment

Highlights the disparity in how individuals or groups are treated.

differential treatment

Similar to unequal treatment, but may imply a more subtle distinction.

unfair application of rules

Focuses on the unjust way rules are enforced.

inconsistent standards

Points out the lack of uniformity in applying criteria.

selective enforcement

Implies that rules are applied only to certain people or situations.

biased judgment

Highlights the presence of prejudice in decision-making.

a matter of favoritism

Focuses on preferential treatment given to some over others.

FAQs

How can I use "a case of double standards" in a sentence?

Use "a case of double standards" to point out situations where different rules or expectations are unfairly applied to similar situations. For example, "The company's promotion policy is "a case of double standards" because it favors male employees over equally qualified female employees."

What phrases are similar to "a case of double standards"?

Similar phrases include "an instance of hypocrisy", "unequal treatment", or "unfair application of rules". Choose the phrase that best fits the specific context.

Is it always negative to describe something as "a case of double standards"?

Yes, describing something as "a case of double standards" typically carries a negative connotation, as it implies unfairness or bias in the application of rules or expectations. It is used to criticize or highlight perceived injustices.

What's the difference between "a case of double standards" and "hypocrisy"?

While both terms relate to inconsistencies, "a case of double standards" focuses on the unequal application of rules, whereas "hypocrisy" refers to a discrepancy between someone's stated beliefs or values and their actual behavior.