unevenness; imbalance; disproportion
Describes a state where things are not equal or uniform in distribution, size, or treatment. Often used in formal or technical contexts.
If the distribution of resources is uneven, dissatisfaction arises.
この制度は機会の不均等を招く恐れがある。
This system may lead to inequality of opportunity.
不均衡 emphasizes a lack of balance, often in systems or forces, whereas 不均等 stresses unequal distribution or proportion.
Formed from 不 (negative prefix) + 均等 (equality, uniformity). The word follows a standard Sino-Japanese compounding pattern.