impartial

UK: ɪmˈpɑːʃəl | US: ɪmˈpɑːrʃəl

Definition

  1. adj. not biased or prejudiced; fair and neutral

Structure
im <not>partial <biased>
Etymology

impartial = im<not> + partial<biased>

  • im (prefix): From Latin in- (not), assimilated to im- before labial consonants (e.g., p, b, m).
  • partial (root): From Latin partialis (relating to a part), derived from pars (part). Over time, it gained the connotation of favoring one part over another, hence "biased."

Etymology Origin:
The word impartial emerged in the early 17th century, combining the negative prefix im- with partial to emphasize the absence of bias. The Latin root pars (part) reflects the idea of favoring one "part" or side, while impartial flips this to signify neutrality. The evolution mirrors legal and philosophical ideals of fairness.

Examples

  1. The judge remained impartial throughout the trial.

  2. Journalists strive to be impartial when reporting news.

  3. An impartial arbitrator resolved the dispute fairly.

  4. Her impartial analysis earned respect from both sides.

  5. The committee selected an impartial observer to monitor the election.