imparcial
Lemma Details
Translation: impartial; unbiased; fair; neutral; objective
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: From the Latin 'impartialis', formed by the negative prefix 'im-' (not) and 'partialis' (partial, biased), derived from 'pars, partis' (part). The word literally means 'not taking sides' or 'not favoring one part over another'. It shares the same Latin root as the English cognate 'impartial', making it relatively easy to recognize for English speakers.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Los periodistas deberían ofrecer una visión imparcial de los hechos.
Journalists should offer an impartial view of the facts.
El juez debe ser imparcial en sus decisiones.
The judge must be impartial in his decisions.
Necesitamos un árbitro imparcial para este debate.
We need an impartial referee for this debate.
Es difícil mantenerse imparcial cuando se trata de la familia.
It's difficult to remain impartial when it comes to family.
Mnemonics
- Think 'im-partial' - not taking any part or side in a dispute.
- Remember that 'im-' is a negative prefix in both Spanish and English, and 'parcial' means 'partial' or 'biased'.
- Visualize a judge or referee wearing a blindfold (symbol of justice) to remain 'imparcial'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
The concept of 'imparcialidad' (impartiality) is highly valued in Spanish-speaking legal systems and journalism. In many Latin American countries and Spain, there is ongoing public discourse about the importance of 'medios imparciales' (impartial media) and 'jueces imparciales' (impartial judges) for a functioning democracy.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Imparcial' means 'impartial' or 'unbiased', while 'parcial' means the opposite: 'partial' or 'biased'. They are antonyms, with 'imparcial' containing the negative prefix 'im-'.
Confused word:
Su opinión es muy parcial porque es su amigo.
His opinion is very biased because he is his friend.
Notes: These words are perfect opposites and differ only by the negative prefix 'im-'.
Mnemonic: Remember that 'im-' negates the meaning: 'imparcial' (not taking sides) vs 'parcial' (taking sides).
Explanation: 'Imparcial' refers to being unbiased or fair, while 'impersonal' means lacking personal connection or emotion, or being detached.
Notes: Both words start with 'imp-' but have different meanings and contexts of use.
Mnemonic: 'Imparcial' relates to fairness (not taking 'part'), while 'impersonal' relates to lack of personal touch (not 'personal').