WordValedisparity
a great difference
In more detail
1. (noun) a noticeable difference or inequality between two things
2. (noun) a lack of equality or fairness in how people or groups are treated
Examples
- 1. There is a large disparity in income between the rich and the poor.
- 2. The disparity in education opportunities between urban and rural areas is a serious problem.
How to use disparity
Disparity emphasizes a significant or troubling difference, often with implications of unfairness or systemic inequality. It typically refers to measurable gaps between groups or conditions, and is frequently used in social, economic, or legal contexts. It is more formal and carries stronger evaluative weight than the neutral word 'difference'.
Common phrases
- wealth disparity
- income disparity
- racial disparity
- gender disparity
- disparity in treatment
- stark disparity
Synonyms
inequality · gap · difference · discrepancy · imbalance
Opposites
equality · parity · similarity
Word family
disparate (adjective) · disparately (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use disparity for minor or trivial differences when the word typically denotes a substantial or meaningful gap that has real consequences.
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