a double standard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a double standard" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where different principles or rules are applied to similar situations, often in a way that is perceived as unfair. Example: "The company has been criticized for applying a double standard when it comes to promotions, favoring certain employees over others without clear justification."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"That's a double standard".

Independent

"It's a double standard.

The New York Times

What is a double standard?

The New York Times

There's a double standard here.

The New York Times

But a double standard holds.

The New York Times

There's a double standard".

The New York Times - Magazine

So there's a double standard there.

The New York Times

She writes, "Is it a double standard?

The New Yorker

Something of a double standard?

The Guardian - Opinion

"I claim a double standard.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Talk about a double standard--a double standard upheld by a federal appeals court.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing on the topic of "a double standard", provide examples to illustrate the specific situations where a double standard is present.

Common error

Avoid vague accusations of "a double standard" without providing specific evidence or context; this weakens your argument and can be perceived as biased or unsubstantiated. Instead, support your claims with concrete examples.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a double standard" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a situation where different sets of principles are applied unfairly to similar situations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Huffington Post

13%

The New York Times

12%

Less common in

Vice

1%

Wikipedia

1%

The New Yorker

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a double standard" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase that serves to point out unfair or inconsistent application of rules or principles. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts and is used to criticize or highlight bias. For best usage, provide clear examples when discussing "a double standard" to avoid vagueness and support your argument. Alternative phrases like "unequal application" or "inconsistent treatment" can offer slightly different nuances. Understanding the communicative purpose and providing specific context is crucial when employing this phrase in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

double standard of justice

Specifically relates to fairness in legal or ethical judgments.

inconsistent treatment

Emphasizes the lack of uniformity in how someone is treated.

differential treatment

Highlights the difference in the way people or things are handled.

unequal application

Focuses on the act of applying rules differently.

selective enforcement

Points out that rules are only applied in certain cases.

unfair disparity

Stresses the unjust nature of the difference.

biased approach

Indicates prejudice or favoritism in the method used.

lack of impartiality

Highlights a lack of neutrality and objectivity.

two tiered system

Suggests a system with different levels of rules or treatment.

unjust discrimination

Emphasizes prejudice and unfair treatment.

FAQs

How can I use "a double standard" in a sentence?

Use "a double standard" to point out situations where one set of rules is applied differently to similar people or circumstances. For example, "There's "a double standard" when judging men and women in leadership roles".

What's the difference between "a double standard" and "hypocrisy"?

"A double standard" involves applying different rules to similar situations, while "hypocrisy" is claiming to have certain beliefs or morals while acting against them. A double standard can exist without "hypocrisy" if the different standards are openly acknowledged.

Which is the correct phrase, "a double standard" or "double standards"?

Both phrases are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "A double standard" refers to a singular instance of differing rules. "Double standards" (plural) refers to the general concept or multiple instances of such differing rules. For example, "The policy reflects "double standards" in its enforcement".

What can I say instead of "a double standard"?

You can use alternatives such as "unequal application", "inconsistent treatment", or "differential treatment" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each alternative emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the unfair or inconsistent application of rules.