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

Judge Ross is the latest in a long line of examples of the most hypocritical double standard: Judges hold others accountable for misconduct but are never held accountable themselves.

From Slate • Jun. 8, 2026

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

Consultant gynaecologist Dr Christine Ekechi, who works in the NHS, says there's often a double standard when it comes to parents talking to their children about puberty.

From BBC • Oct. 29, 2025

In Spears' memoir, "The Woman in Me," she wrote that she noticed a double standard in the media while dating Justin Timberlake at 18.

From Salon • Mar. 5, 2025

There was, however, a bit of a double standard when it came to romance.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein