equitable

Equitable is an adjective used to describe fairness that is appropriate to the circumstances rather than strictly identical treatment. Something is equitable when it seeks to balance competing interests and align outcomes with justice as understood in a given context. The term is widely used in law, philosophy, economics, and social policy, and it often contrasts with the idea of equality, which emphasizes uniform treatment regardless of differences.

In legal systems that distinguish common-law courts of law and courts of equity, equitable remedies and principles operate to achieve fairness when legal rules would produce a harsh result. Equitable relief includes injunctions, specific performance, and reform of contracts or trusts. Equitable maxims guide judicial discretion, such as "he who seeks equity must do equity" and "substance over form." Equity tends to consider relevant circumstances, fiduciary duties, and the intent of the parties.

In finance and business, equitable considerations can refer to fairness in distributions, or to the concept of equity as ownership in a company. In corporate and estate planning, "equitable" often refers to arrangements that aim to be just given differing circumstances of beneficiaries or stakeholders.

In everyday usage, 'equitable' is often paired with 'fair' and is a key goal of public policy, social programs, and dispute resolution. A die or lottery is described as equitable when all outcomes are equally likely.

See also: equity, equality, fair.