Words / C1

EKW-it-uh-bl/ˈekwɪtəbl/

Equitable means fair in the share or the process, treating parties even-handedly. Fair is everyday; equal means the same amount, which is not always fair. Just is more moral or legal. Equitable distribution / an equitable solution. Equity (fairness, or a finance sense) is related. In speech, fair is almost always better unless you are writing policy.

Meaning

Fair and treating people equally.

Examples

• “They wanted a more equitable share of the work.”
• “They sought a more equitable split of marking, not an equal one.”
• “An equitable process still has to be explained to the losing side.”

Good to know

equitable = fair shares/process. equal = the same amount. Everyday: fair. Noun: equity (careful: also finance).

Near in meaning

fair

New