double standard

[duhb-uhl stan-derd]

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.

double standard

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of double standard¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Idioms and Phrases

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]

Example Sentences

China’s commerce ministry accused the U.S. of “double standards” regarding tariff threats and it vowed that China would “fight to the end” in the trade dispute.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

China has defended its restrictions on rare earth exports and accused the U.S. of a “double standard” in trade measures, according to remarks External link by a Chinese Ministry of Commerce spokesperson on Sunday.

Read more on Barron's

Beijing, in turn, accused Washington of acting unfairly, and the Ministry of Commerce on Sunday called the threat a "typical example of 'double standards'".

Read more on Barron's

Beijing, in turn, accused Washington of acting unfairly, with its Ministry of Commerce on Sunday calling the threat a "typical example of 'double standards'".

Read more on Barron's

Moreover, he said, the state law enforces a double standard.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

When To Use

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 ]