unfair

adjective

un·​fair ˌən-ˈfer How to pronounce unfair (audio)
1
: marked by injustice, partiality, or deception : unjust
2
: not equitable in business dealings
unfairness noun

Examples of unfair in a Sentence

It's unfair for them to be allowed to leave early if we can't. It seems unfair to single her out for criticism. The company has been accused of unfair labor practices.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The city and county of San Francisco filed the lawsuit seeking an injunction on April 18, alleging trademark infringement, unfair competition and false designation of the airport, according to court documents. Caelyn Pender, The Mercury News, 12 Nov. 2024 Instead, thank your local county clerk for enduring four years of unfair accusations and conducting the 2024 election efficiently and effectively. Krista Kafer, The Denver Post, 11 Nov. 2024 Others argue that residents will lie about their rent and income to get an unfair share of benefits. Roger Valdez, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 The proposal would also create a hearing process when a company or union is charged with an unfair work practice. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for unfair 

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unfair was in 1700

Dictionary Entries Near unfair

Cite this Entry

“Unfair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfair. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

unfair

adjective
un·​fair ˌən-ˈfa(ə)r How to pronounce unfair (audio)
ˈən-,
-ˈfe(ə)r
1
: not fair, honest, or just : unjust, dishonest
an unfair trial
2
: not fair in doing business
unfair to workers
unfairly adverb
unfairness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unfair

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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