equitable
EK-wih-tuh-bul
/ˈɛkwɪtəbl/
Fair and impartial; dealing fairly and equally with all concerned.
Equitable is the adjective form of equity; it implies a fairness that goes beyond just following the rules.
The story behind the word. Sharing the same root as 'equity', it emphasizes the 'able'—the ability to be fair and level in judgment.
Word relationships
- fair: Fair is the common word; equitable is the formal, often legal, word.
- unfair: Lacking in justice or impartiality.
Commonly confused with
- equal: Equal means the same in quantity; equitable means fair in context.
Word family
- equity (noun): Fairness.
Collocations
- equitable distribution
- equitable treatment
- equitable solution
Example sentences
- "The partners sought an equitable distribution of the company's remaining assets." Business Law
- "The treaty was designed to ensure equitable access to clean water for all nations." Global Policy
Memory hook
Think of 'Equity-able'. You are able to provide equity. Fairly balanced.
When not to use
Do not use 'equitable' when you mean 'equal'. An equitable distribution of food might give more to a starving person than a full one.
Fun facts
- In legal history, 'Courts of Equity' were separate from 'Courts of Law' and were used to provide equitable relief when the law was too rigid.
Related words
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