Disparity
mediumNegative tonedis-PAIR-ih-tee
noun
Definition
A great difference or inequality
Memory hook
DIS-PARITY: NOT at PARITY (equality) - a big gap between two things that should be equal.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“There is a growing disparity between rich and poor.”
“The disparity in education quality is a major concern.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“There is a growing ______ between rich and poor.”
Show answer
disparity
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Disparity is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "inequality" or "discrepancy" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "parity".
Related GRE Words
discrepancy
A lack of compatibility or similarity between two facts or claims
anomaly
Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected
disparate
Essentially different in kind; distinct and not able to be compared directly
diverge
to move or extend in different directions; to differ
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
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