impartial

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "impartial" is correct and usable in written English as an adjective.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is fair and unbiased. For example, "The judge listened to both sides of the argument before making an impartial decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Both sides had a loyal following, but it was Piketty whose meticulous examination of the evidence, seemed to provide the impartial proof audiences were craving.

The Guardian - Money

The former Tory treasurer, who now insists he is an impartial pollster, suggested that the Tories and Labour would be tied on 272 seats each.

The Guardian

We are proud that they have come to us in large numbers throughout the campaign and have trusted us to be clear, fair and impartial".

The Guardian

An Ofcom spokesperson said: "Ofcom is investigating whether the programme was duly impartial to ask Nigel Farage about his prospects of winning the Thanet South constituency without reflecting the position of other candidates".

The Guardian

A statement issued through the federation's chairman, Glen Smyth, claimed that several reports into suspected police wrongdoings were making the IPCC appear "less than impartial" and "not unlike a pressure group with an agenda".

The Guardian

In other words, the documents clearly point to a failure to complete an "impartial investigation into the allegations" in accordance with international law.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

As a leading source for timely and impartial reporting, Reuters continues to drive engagement with the business elite around the world.

The Guardian

In 1982 the World Service's impartial Falklands war coverage garnered the ire of Margaret Thatcher, who said "the case for our country is not being put with sufficient vigour on... the BBC".

The Guardian

Yaqoob, who lives in Birmingham, claimed the Ofsted inspections "were not impartial" and that "the view on the ground is that this is political interference – Michael Gove is the education secretary and his views are well known".

The Guardian

Let me be clear: the BBC is scrupulously impartial.

The Guardian

Patten says poll findings show the public think the BBC is more impartial than other broadcasters.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "impartial" when describing third-party assessments to highlight their objectivity and trustworthiness.

Common error

While both terms suggest a lack of bias, "impartial" implies fairness in judgment based on evidence, whereas neutrality suggests not taking any side in a conflict. Avoid using "neutral" when you mean to convey a fair and considered judgment.

Linguistic Context

The word "impartial" functions primarily as an adjective. It is used to describe a person, entity, or process that does not favor one side or another. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates fairness and an absence of bias.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

27%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "impartial" is an adjective used to describe something or someone who is fair and unbiased. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is commonly found in contexts like news, formal business communications, and scientific reports, emphasizing objectivity. To enhance writing, remember that while related to neutrality, "impartial" focuses on fair judgment, whereas neutrality implies not taking sides. Consider using alternatives like "unbiased" or "objective" to add nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unbiased

Directly synonymous, referring to the absence of prejudice for or against something.

objective

Focuses on presenting facts without personal feelings or interpretations.

neutral

Implies not taking sides in a dispute or argument.

fair-minded

Emphasizes an equitable consideration of differing viewpoints.

equitable

Highlights just and fair treatment for everyone involved.

disinterested

Indicates a lack of personal stake or interest in the outcome.

unprejudiced

Stresses the absence of preconceived judgments or biases.

even-handed

Suggests treating all parties or perspectives equally.

without favoritism

Explicitly denotes the absence of preferential treatment.

non-partisan

Refers specifically to avoiding alignment with any political party or faction.

FAQs

How can I use "impartial" in a sentence?

You can use "impartial" to describe someone or something that is fair and unbiased. For example, "The judge remained "objective" and made an impartial decision based on the evidence presented."

What can I say instead of "impartial"?

You can use alternatives like "unbiased", "objective", or "fair-minded" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "impartial" and "neutral"?

"Impartial" implies a fair and unbiased judgment based on evidence, while "neutral" suggests not taking any side in a conflict. Something can be "objective" and make a decision, remaining impartial, while "neutral" usually just means not participating.

Is it correct to say someone is "partially impartial"?

No, it is not correct. "Impartial" means without bias; thus, something can't be partially without bias. The terms are mutually exclusive. It would be correct to say that someone is striving to be more "fair" or trying to be less "biased", but not "partially impartial".