double standards
Unfair different rules
Literalmente: Two sets of measurement criteria
Use `double standards` to point out when someone is being hypocritical by applying rules unfairly.
Em 15 segundos
- Unfair rules that apply differently to different groups of people.
- A way to call out hypocrisy in behavior or policy.
- Commonly used in social, professional, and personal relationship arguments.
Significado
It is when one group of people is allowed to do something, but another group is punished for doing the exact same thing. It is like having two different rulebooks for the same game based on who is playing.
Exemplos-chave
3 de 6Complaining about a boss
My boss has such double standards; he's always late but yells if we are one minute behind.
My boss has such unfair rules; he's late but yells at us for it.
Talking about dating
There is a huge double standard regarding how society views men and women dating.
There is an unfair difference in how society views men and women dating.
Texting a friend about parents
My parents let my brother stay out late but I have a 9 PM curfew. Total double standard!
My parents are being unfair with the rules. Total double standard!
Contexto cultural
The term gained massive social momentum during the feminist movements of the 1960s and 70s to highlight gender inequality. In modern Western culture, calling out a 'double standard' is a common way to demand social justice and equal treatment in the workplace and media. It reflects a cultural value that places high importance on objective fairness over traditional hierarchy.
Singular vs. Plural
You can say 'That is a double standard' (singular) or 'He has double standards' (plural). Both are very common!
Don't be too aggressive
Calling out a 'double standard' is a direct accusation of hypocrisy. Use it carefully in professional settings so you don't sound too confrontational.
Em 15 segundos
- Unfair rules that apply differently to different groups of people.
- A way to call out hypocrisy in behavior or policy.
- Commonly used in social, professional, and personal relationship arguments.
What It Means
Imagine you and your brother both break a glass. Your mom gets mad at you but just laughs when your brother does it. That is a double standard. It means rules are not applied fairly to everyone. One person gets a pass while the other gets in trouble. It feels unfair because the 'standard' or rule changes depending on the person. It is basically hypocrisy in action.
How To Use It
You usually say someone 'has' or 'applies' double standards. You can also say 'That is a total double standard!' when you see something unfair. It works as a noun. You can use it to describe a boss, a parent, or even a government. It is a strong way to point out that someone is being a hypocrite. Just remember to use the plural standards most of the time.
When To Use It
Use this when you feel the 'playing field' isn't level. It is perfect for venting to a friend about a coworker who gets away with being late. You can use it in a serious debate about social issues or gender. It is also great for lighthearted complaints. For example, tell your partner it is a double standard that they can steal your fries, but you can't touch theirs.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for simple accidents or mistakes. If a rule is the same for everyone but one person just got lucky, that is not a double standard. It is only for when the *rule itself* is applied differently. Also, avoid using it in very happy or celebratory moments. It is a 'complaint' phrase. Using it at a wedding might make you the 'party pooper' of the night.
Cultural Background
This phrase became very popular in the mid-20th century. It was often used to talk about how men and women were treated differently in society. In Western culture, fairness is a huge deal. People get very frustrated when they see 'one rule for them, and another for us.' It is a core part of how people discuss justice and equality today. It is a 'call out' phrase that demands consistency.
Common Variations
You might hear people say 'hypocrisy' which is a close cousin. Some people say 'one rule for the rich, another for the poor.' You can also use the adjective form: double-standardized behavior, though that is much less common. Usually, people just stick to the classic double standards. It is punchy and everyone knows exactly what you mean.
Notas de uso
The phrase is highly versatile and fits into almost any register. However, it carries a tone of accusation, so it is best used when you are pointing out a genuine grievance or inequality.
Singular vs. Plural
You can say 'That is a double standard' (singular) or 'He has double standards' (plural). Both are very common!
Don't be too aggressive
Calling out a 'double standard' is a direct accusation of hypocrisy. Use it carefully in professional settings so you don't sound too confrontational.
The 'Fairness' Obsession
English speakers, especially in the US and UK, are culturally obsessed with 'fairness.' Using this phrase is a very effective way to get people's attention.
Exemplos
6My boss has such double standards; he's always late but yells if we are one minute behind.
My boss has such unfair rules; he's late but yells at us for it.
Highlights the hypocrisy of a leader.
There is a huge double standard regarding how society views men and women dating.
There is an unfair difference in how society views men and women dating.
Used for a broad social observation.
My parents let my brother stay out late but I have a 9 PM curfew. Total double standard!
My parents are being unfair with the rules. Total double standard!
Casual venting between friends.
So you can use my toothbrush but I can't use your hairbrush? Talk about double standards!
You have unfair rules about our stuff!
Lighthearted teasing.
The public is tired of the double standards held by politicians who break their own laws.
People are tired of politicians not following the rules they make.
Formal critique of authority.
The referee has a double standard; he only calls fouls against our team.
The referee is being unfair and only punishing us.
Expressing frustration at a game.
Teste-se
Choose the correct word to complete the sentence about workplace unfairness.
It's a clear ___ when the manager gets a bonus for the team's hard work while the staff gets nothing.
The phrase is always `double standard` (singular for the concept) or `double standards` (plural for the actions).
Complete the sentence to express frustration.
Stop applying ___! If I can't eat in the car, you shouldn't either.
While 'different standards' is grammatically okay, `double standards` is the specific idiom for this type of hypocrisy.
🎉 Pontuação: /2
Recursos visuais
Formality of 'Double Standards'
Used with friends to complain about small things.
That's a total double standard!
Standard way to describe unfairness in news or work.
We need to address these double standards.
Used in academic or legal discussions.
The policy exhibits a clear double standard.
Where you'll hear 'Double Standards'
Parenting
Siblings getting different treatment.
Workplace
Bosses vs. Employees rules.
Social Media
Influencers vs. Regular users.
Relationships
Expectations for partners.
Perguntas frequentes
12 perguntasIt means having one set of rules for one person and a different set for someone else. It is basically unfairness.
Both work! Use a double standard when talking about one specific rule, and double standards when talking about someone's general behavior.
Yes, but be careful. Saying There is a double standard here is a serious claim that things are unfair.
No, it is a neutral, standard English expression used in everything from casual chats to the nightly news.
Hypocrisy is the general act of not practicing what you preach. A double standard is a specific type of hypocrisy involving rules for others.
Not really. It almost always describes an unfair or negative situation.
You can say 'I hate the double standard where...' or 'Stop using double standards!'
Inequality or bias are similar, but they don't capture the 'two-faced' nature of the rules quite like double standards does.
It is used equally in both! It is a very common term across the entire English-speaking world.
Don't say 'dual standards.' While 'dual' means two, the idiom is strictly double standards.
No, it is almost always used to describe the behavior or rules created by people or organizations.
It's not 'bad language,' but it is a criticism. Use it when you are prepared to defend why you think something is unfair.
Frases relacionadas
Hypocrisy
Claiming to have moral standards that one's own behavior does not match.
Level playing field
A situation where everyone has the same opportunities and rules.
One rule for them
A common idiom meaning some people don't have to follow the rules others do.
Playing favorites
Giving unfair preferential treatment to one person or group.
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