ebavõrdseks

Ebavõrdseks is an Estonian adverbial form derived from the adjective ebavõrdne meaning unequal. It denotes a transition into a state of inequality or the manner in which something becomes unequal. The form is primarily used in formal, academic, or policy discourse, and appears in constructions such as muuta ebavõrdseks (to render unequal) or jääda ebavõrdseks (to remain unequal).

Etymology and grammar: ebavõrdseks is the translative case form of ebavõrdne, marked by the suffix -seks to express change of state. In usage, it functions as a modifier describing how a situation or outcome becomes or is made unequal. It is most common in written texts and analytical writing about fairness, distribution, or rights, rather than in casual speech.

Usage and context: The term is often encountered in discussions of income distribution, social policy, or legal equity, where authors describe processes that would render opportunities or resources ebavõrdseks. Because it denotes a state change rather than a mere description, it tends to appear alongside verbs indicating action or development that creates inequality. In everyday Estonian, speakers may prefer ebavõrdne or ebavõrdsus, with ebavõrdseks reserved for more formal or technical contexts.

Examples: "Kavade läbiviimine võib muuta koolide võimalused ebavõrdseks." "Uut maksustamissüsteemi tuleb hinnata, et vältida ebavõrdseks muutumist võrreldes teiste sissetulekukategooriatega."

See also: ebavõrdne, ebavõrdsus, võrdsus.