What does unequally mean?
Unequally is the adverb form of unequal and describes something done or occurring in a manner that is not even, proportionate, or the same for everyone. It is especially common in discussions of resources, opportunities, treatment, contributions, and effects, as in “the benefits were distributed unequally.” Although the word often draws attention to an unfair arrangement, it does not always accuse anyone of wrongdoing: rainfall, funding, or participation may simply have differed in measurable ways. The distinction between unequal and unequally can be useful because the former characterizes a result or condition, while the latter characterizes the manner in which that result arose. Unequally is therefore especially valuable in reporting and analysis, where the pattern of difference matters as much as the final outcome. Its direct contrast is equally, though evenly and uniformly can provide useful alternatives depending on context.
adverbIn a way that is not equal; unevenly or disproportionately.
- In a manner that is not equal, evenly balanced, or proportionate.
"The resources were distributed unequally among the participating communities."
"The two departments contributed unequally to the project despite having similar staffing levels."
"Rainfall fell unequally across the valley, producing very different conditions on either side of the ridge."
Unequal describes the result; unequally reveals the uneven way it was handed out.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unequally come from?
Unequally was formed in English from the adjective unequal and the adverb-forming suffix -ly. Unequal came through Old French from Latin inaequalis, meaning “not equal,” while equal belongs to the Latin family represented by aequalis, meaning “equal.” Related English forms include inequality and unequalness; the word unequally developed as an adverb expressing the manner of unequal comparison, division, or distribution.
How unequally is actually used
The word is neutral in register and common in formal and analytical writing. It can suggest inequity or unfair treatment, but it may also describe a purely factual difference in distribution or contribution.
Easily confused with unequally
Unequal is an adjective describing things that differ in status, value, or amount, whereas unequally is an adverb describing the manner in which something is divided, shared, or distributed.