two-tier
Americanadjective
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consisting of two tiers, floors, levels, or the like.
a two-tier wedding cake.
-
consisting of two separate price structures, sets of regulations, etc..
a two-tier fare system for subways and buses.
adjective
Etymology
Origin of two-tier
First recorded in 1970–75
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.
But the government has insisted delays are needed to allow once-in-a-generation reforms to end the outdated two-tier system and build stronger local councils.
From BBC
The rejig of local government will replace the two-tier system of district and county councils that exists in many parts of England with new 'unitary' councils responsible for delivering all councils services in their area.
From BBC
The government's rejig of local government will replace the two-tier system of district and county councils that exists in many parts of England with new 'unitary' councils responsible for delivering all councils services in their area.
From BBC
Access to obesity treatment in the UK may be heading toward a two-tier system, raising concerns that some of the most vulnerable patients could be left without help.
From Science Daily
"Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that demands equitable access to treatment for all who need it -- not just those who can afford it. The current approach risks entrenching a two-tier system where wealth, rather than medical need, determines access to care. We urgently need a more inclusive, fair and scalable model that ensures effective treatments are accessible across all communities, especially those already facing systemic barriers to healthcare."
From Science Daily
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.