double standard

USAGE SUMMARY

"double standard" is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used to describe situations where two people or groups are given different rights, privileges, or treatments for doing something similar. For example: "The court showed a double standard when it gave the celebrity a lenient punishment for the same crime another person had been severely punished for."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Double standard?

The Economist

Why the double standard?

The New York Times

"That's a double standard".

Independent

"It's a double standard.

The New York Times

Double standard, anyone?

The New York Times

There's a double standard".

The New York Times - Magazine

Why this double standard?

The New York Times

It's a strange double standard.

The New Yorker

What is a double standard?

The New York Times

What justifies this double standard?

The New York Times

There's a double standard here.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "double standard", clearly identify the groups or individuals being treated differently and the specific standard being applied inconsistently. This provides context and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "double standard" without explaining the specific situation or rule being applied inconsistently. Without context, the phrase can be vague and lose its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "double standard" functions as a noun, typically used to identify and critique situations where differing sets of principles or rules are applied unfairly. Ludwig and its examples confirm this usage, showing it often appears as the subject or object of a sentence, highlighting the perceived injustice.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "double standard" is a noun phrase used to criticize situations where rules or expectations are applied inconsistently and unfairly. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news and media. When employing this phrase, be specific about the context and the groups being treated differently. Alternatives such as "unequal treatment" or "inconsistent application" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Avoid vague usage to maintain clarity and impact. Using the examples of Ludwig can improve your writings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unequal treatment

Highlights the disparity in how individuals or groups are handled.

inconsistent application

Focuses on the lack of uniformity in applying a rule or guideline.

discriminatory practice

Emphasizes the bias and prejudice inherent in the differing treatment.

hypocritical approach

Points out the contradiction between stated beliefs and actual behavior.

selective enforcement

Indicates that rules are only applied to certain individuals or groups.

differential treatment

Similar to unequal treatment, but can also refer to reasonable accommodation.

unfair bias

Underscores the prejudice that leads to a double standard.

two sets of rules

Directly describes the existence of different standards for different groups.

lack of impartiality

Highlights the absence of fairness and objectivity.

biased judgment

Focuses on the skewed perspective that results in a double standard.

FAQs

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

You can use "double standard" to point out situations where different rules or expectations are applied to similar situations. For example, "There's a "double standard" when men are praised for being assertive, but women are labeled as aggressive for the same behavior."

What's a good synonym for "double standard"?

Alternatives include "unequal treatment", "inconsistent application", or "discriminatory practice". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "double standard" and hypocrisy?

"Double standard" refers to applying different rules to similar situations. Hypocrisy is claiming to have certain beliefs or moral standards but behaving in a way that contradicts them.

Is "double standard" always a negative thing?

Yes, the term "double standard" is almost always used in a negative context to criticize unfairness or inconsistency. It implies that someone is being treated unfairly because of who they are or what group they belong to.