double standard
A "double standard" occurs when different principles or rules are applied to similar situations, often leading to unfair treatment.
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Definition
B2General
(common)Applying different principles or rules to similar situations, often unfairly favoring one group over another.
Example
- It's a double standard to punish one student for being late while excusing another for the same reason.
C1Sociology
(academic)Judging similar actions or individuals by different criteria, often leading to biased treatment.
Example
- The double standard in workplace promotions often disadvantages women compared to men.
C1Ethics
(formal)The practice of applying different moral or ethical criteria to similar situations, often resulting in unjust or discriminatory outcomes.
Example
- Critics argue that the legal system's double standard favors the wealthy over the poor.