unequal relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

"unequal relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an imbalanced or unequal relationship between two entities, such as people, countries, or organizations. For example, "The unequal relationship between the government and the public has caused a lack of trust in recent years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This unequal relationship is not achieved overnight.

The Guardian

French cartoonists have illustrated cruelly the increasingly unequal relationship.

The New York Times

In part, I think, because therapy is essentially an unequal relationship.

The New York Times - Health

Such an unequal relationship calls into question the very term "west".

The Guardian

The old symbiotic alliance has been replaced by a profoundly unequal relationship.

The Guardian

Similar discretion is called for in any unequal relationship -- teacher-student, clergy-churchgoer, I.R.S. auditor-weeping taxpayer.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Bush promised that the two leaders would remake the often strained and unequal relationship between the two countries.

The New York Times

It's impossible to understand the Korean presence in Iraq without understanding our complex and unequal relationship with the United States.

The New York Times

Smith warned that the unequal relationship many publishers were entering into with Facebook could end badly for both parties.

The Guardian

One of Arreola's fixations was the absurdity of religious belief and what he denounced as God's unequal relationship to humankind.

Britannica

In a generally unequal relationship between the two nations, rugby is an area in which Wales has real parity.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing social or political issues, use "unequal relationship" to accurately describe power imbalances. For instance, highlight the "unequal relationship" between developed and developing nations in trade agreements.

Common error

Avoid using "unequal relationship" interchangeably with merely 'different' relationships. "Unequal relationship" implies an imbalance of power, resources, or rights, not just a difference in characteristics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unequal relationship" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

27%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unequal relationship" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe situations characterized by an imbalance of power, resources, or influence. Ludwig's analysis, as well as multiple real-world examples, demonstrate its prevalent usage across various domains, including news media, academia, and scientific research. When using this phrase, it's crucial to accurately represent the power dynamics at play and not merely highlight differences. It's often used to critique or analyze unfair or unjust situations. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "unfair dynamic" or "imbalanced connection" to ensure the intended nuance is preserved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unfair dynamic

Focuses on the injustice or lack of equity within the interaction.

imbalanced connection

Highlights the lack of equilibrium in the relationship's elements.

disproportionate power structure

Emphasizes the unequal distribution of control or influence.

asymmetrical bond

Indicates a lack of symmetry or parity between the parties.

lopsided arrangement

Suggests an imbalance where one side benefits more than the other.

skewed interaction

Implies a deviation from fairness or equality in the exchange.

inequitable association

Highlights the unfairness or injustice inherent in the partnership.

unbalanced alliance

Focuses on the instability and potential for exploitation within the union.

disparate partnership

Emphasizes the fundamental differences that create an unequal dynamic.

patchy collaboration

Underscores the unevenness and inconsistency in the cooperative effort.

FAQs

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

Use "unequal relationship" to describe situations where there's a power imbalance, such as: "The historical context reveals an "unequal relationship" between colonizer and colonized".

What are some alternatives to "unequal relationship"?

Depending on the specific context, consider alternatives like "unfair dynamic", "imbalanced connection", or "disproportionate power structure".

Is it correct to use "unequal relationship" in a formal context?

Yes, "unequal relationship" is suitable for formal contexts, especially in academic, professional, or journalistic writing where you need to describe power imbalances or inequities.

What is the difference between "unequal relationship" and "unhealthy relationship"?

"Unequal relationship" specifically refers to an imbalance of power or resources, while "unhealthy relationship" is a broader term encompassing any relationship that is damaging or detrimental, regardless of power dynamics. An "unequal relationship" can certainly be an unhealthy one, but not all unhealthy relationships are necessarily unequal in power.