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

It’s a double standard, said a musician named Rosul, who often performs narcocorridos and who attended the lively party in Mexico City last week.

From Los Angeles Times • May 11, 2025

The League and its backers have for months argued that Sanchez’s case has laid bare a double standard in the way that command staff and rank-and-file officers are treated, which has hurt morale.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 1, 2025

It’s all but a requirement, a built-in fee for our societal double standard.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama