Definition

Not treating people or groups equally; not fair or just.

Example

It is unfair to give one student more time than others on the test.

Conversation

Did you see the referee's call in the game last night?

Yeah, it was totally unfair to the players.

I know right? It really changed the outcome of the match.

Exactly! It felt like the team didn't even get a fair chance.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Unfair** → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "fair" (from Old English *fæger*, meaning pleasing or beautiful). The word "unfair" means not pleasing or just, indicating a lack of fairness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') combined with 'pleasing' or 'just' ('fair') — that's why unfair means something that is not just or pleasing.

Visually Confused Words