nierówny

Nierówny is a Polish adjective describing something that is not even, not level, or not equal. It can refer to physical irregularities such as a surface or terrain, but also to non-physical qualities like a process, distribution, or development that is uneven or inconsistent. In everyday speech, nierówny is used for both concrete objects and abstract concepts: nierówna powierzchnia (uneven surface), nierówny teren (uneven terrain), nierówny podział (unequal distribution), nierówny rozwój (irregular development).

The word originates from prefix nie- plus równy, meaning "not equal" or "not level." It has been part of standard Polish since medieval times. The form agrees with gender and number: nierówny (m. sing.), nierówna (f. sing.), nierówne (neuter or plural).

In mathematics, nierówny can describe quantities that are not equal, though the noun nierówność (inequality) is more common for the mathematical concept. Phrases include liczby nierówne or wartości nierówne, meaning unequal numbers or values, and nierówność as the property or relation of being unequal.

Common related terms include nieregularny (irregular) and nierównomierny (uneven in pace or distribution), while the opposite of nierówny is równy (equal, even). Nierówny can also carry figurative meanings, such as nierówny stosunek (unfair or unequal relation) or nierówny poziom (inconsistent level). See also równość, nierówność, równy.