double standard

noun

1

: a set of principles that applies differently and usually more rigorously to one group of people or circumstances than to another

especially : a code of morals that applies more severe standards of sexual behavior to women than to men

2

: bimetallism

Examples of double standard in a Sentence

She argued that society applies a double standard in dealing with women who commit adultery.

Recent Examples on the Web

In my view as a scholar of race and professional sports, the firings revealed the NFL’s double standard for Black head coaches and suggest that Black men are still valued more for their athletic prowess than their leadership skills. —Joseph N. Cooper, The Conversation, 7 Feb. 2025

This double standard perpetuates harmful gender norms that can shape how young people view relationships, self-worth, and body image. —Melissa Willets, Parents, 3 Feb. 2025

The United States’ recent foreign policy missteps and the perception of double standards in its divergent responses to the wars and human suffering in Ukraine and Gaza have damaged the country’s reputation. —Roger W. Ferguson, Foreign Affairs, 30 Jan. 2025

Rebecca Hamilton, formerly a lawyer in the ICC’s prosecutorial division, wrote in Just Security about the double standard the U.S. is forced into by opposing the ICC following the Taliban arrest warrants. —Beth Bailey, Fox News, 26 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

double standard

noun

: a set of standards that applies differently and usually more harshly to one group of people or circumstances than to another