double standard

American  

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

noun

1. any code or set of principles containing different provisions for one group of people than for another, especially an unwritten code of sexual behavior permitting men more freedom than women.

2. Economics.  bimetallism.

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double standard British  

noun

1. a set of principles that allows greater freedom to one person or group than to another

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double standard Idioms  

1. A set of principles establishing different provisions for one group than another; also, specifically, allowing men more sexual freedom than women. For example, She complained that her father had a double standard—her brothers were allowed to date, but she was not, even though she was older. [Mid-1900s]

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Usage

What does double standard mean? Ideally, we should all be judged according to the same criteria. But when someone is treated differently than someone else in the same situation, especially when women are treated differently than men or men are given more freedom than women, we call that a double standard.How do you pronounce double standard?[ duhb-uhl stan-derd ]

Etymology

Origin of double standard

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

But there's another, related double standard lurking just outside the frame.

From Salon

“It’s deplorable that these governments don’t address the question of double standards with which we have been confronted,” the German lawyer said.

From Seattle Times

Evan Greer, director of the nonprofit liberal advocacy group Fight for the Future, said Twitter’s actions are “the latest example of Big Tech companies employing double standards in content moderation.”

From Seattle Times

According to Amnesty International, such double standards only fuel further repression for millions in the region.

From Washington Times

“This double standard operated in Springfield in 1908, infecting Springfield’s criminal justice system and depriving James of a fair trial.”

From Seattle Times