Another Word for Fair: 16 Synonyms with Examples
“Fair” can mean just, reasonably good, light in colour, or (of weather) fine. The right synonym depends on the sense.
As an adjective: treating people equally
- just
- equitable
- impartial
- even-handed
- unbiased
- reasonable
- objective
As an adjective: reasonably good
- reasonable
- decent
- adequate
- satisfactory
- moderate
- acceptable
As an adjective: light in colour
- blond
- light
- pale
- golden
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- just
- Morally right and fair; often used of laws and outcomes.
- equitable
- Formal; fair in sharing out resources.
- impartial
- Not favouring any side, as a judge should be.
- reasonable
- Fair and sensible; also fairly good.
- decent
- Fairly good, or behaving honestly.
Example sentences
- just: The court reached a just decision.
- equitable: We need an equitable way to share the costs.
- impartial: An impartial referee is essential.
- reasonable: The prices here are very reasonable.
- pale: She has pale skin and freckles.
Opposite of fair
- unfair
- unjust
- biased
- dark
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “fair”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adjective: bonny, comely
noun: carnival, bazaar
adverb: fairly, clean
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “fair”?
The most useful alternatives are “just”, “equitable”, “impartial”, “even-handed”, “unbiased”. For the main sense (treating people equally), “just” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “just” and “equitable”?
just: Morally right and fair; often used of laws and outcomes. equitable: Formal; fair in sharing out resources.
What is the opposite of “fair”?
Common antonyms are “unfair”, “unjust”, “biased”, “dark”.