be unequal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be unequal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing disparities, differences, or lack of equality between two or more entities. Example: "In a fair society, no one should be treated differently or be unequal in their rights and opportunities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's equality of opportunity to be unequal.

The Guardian

"We don't have to be unequal.

The Guardian

They may be unequal, if unreasonable.

Cornell University

How a government distributes aid can be unequal and biased.

The Washington Post

However, use of PHRs may be unequal by race/ethnicity.

Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association

The actual result, however, may be unequal access to information.

The Economist

*Do a girl's developing breasts appear to be unequal in size?

The New York Times - Health

It may be sad, it may be unequal, but it is true.

The Guardian

The flaw in meritocracy is that it is equal opportunity to be unequal.

The Guardian

Others in New Zealand were less tolerant of what they perceived to be unequal treatment.

The New York Times

As a result, apparently equal laws are apt, in reality, to be unequal for religious Americans.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about social issues, use “be unequal” to highlight disparities. For example, “Access to quality healthcare can be unequal based on socioeconomic status.”

Common error

Avoid using "be unequal" without providing context or specific examples. Vague statements about inequality can lack impact and credibility. Instead, offer concrete evidence or data to support your claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be unequal" functions primarily as a linking verb followed by an adjective, describing a state of not being equal. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, and the examples demonstrate its use in various contexts to express disparities or imbalances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be unequal" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a state of disparity or imbalance. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is correct and versatile. Predominantly featured in news, scientific, and academic sources, it serves to highlight differences across various domains. When employing this phrase, providing specific context is crucial to avoid vagueness and ensure clarity. Alternatives like "be different", "be unbalanced", and "be disproportionate" can offer nuanced substitutes depending on the context. In summary, "be unequal" is a powerful tool for articulating disparities, but it's best used with precision and supporting details.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be dissimilar

This alternative focuses on the lack of resemblance or similarity between items.

be uneven

This alternative highlights a lack of uniformity or consistency.

be different

This alternative simply indicates a distinction without specifying the nature of the difference.

be unbalanced

This suggests a lack of equilibrium or proportion.

be disproportionate

This alternative indicates that the ratios or scales are not equivalent.

be inequitable

This indicates a lack of fairness or justice in distribution or treatment.

be at a disadvantage

This alternative suggests that one entity is in a less favorable position than another.

be dissimilar

Focuses on the lack of resemblance or similarity between entities.

be distinct

This signifies a clear and recognizable difference.

be contrasted

This means to be noticeably different or opposed.

FAQs

How can I use "be unequal" in a sentence?

You can use "be unequal" to describe situations where there is a lack of equality or balance. For example, "The distribution of wealth can "be unequal" in many societies."

What are some alternatives to "be unequal"?

Alternatives include "be different", "be unbalanced", or "be disproportionate", depending on the specific context.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "be unequal"?

It's appropriate in contexts discussing disparities in treatment, resources, or opportunities. For instance, "Opportunities may "be unequal" due to systemic biases."

What is the difference between "be unequal" and "be unfair"?

"Be unequal" describes a state of disparity, while "be unfair" implies injustice or a lack of equitable treatment. Something can "be unequal" without necessarily being unfair, and vice versa.