double standard

[duhb-uhl stan-derd] / ˈdʌb əl ˈstæn dərd /

NOUN

contrasting principles

Synonyms

WEAK

contradictory standard two sets of rules

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A junior member of President Emmanuel Macron's government Wednesday criticized Clooney getting his passport despite speaking poor French, saying the move suggested a "double standard."

From Barron's • Dec. 31, 2025

This contrast exposes a stark double standard in U.S. policy.

From Salon • Dec. 28, 2025

Bass said it was critical that the next chief address one of officers’ main gripes: the view that the department’s much-maligned disciplinary system has created a double standard for high-ranking officers.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 4, 2024

Bass said it was critical that the next chief to address one of officers’ main gripes: the view that the department’s much-maligned disciplinary system has created a double standard for high-ranking officers.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 4, 2024

Plus, they were all too aware of the double standard being laid down between the loggers and the tourists.

From "Mountain of Fire" by Rebecca E. F. Barone