partial

/ˈpɑːʃəl/

Group 10Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(adjective)
Favoring one side in a dispute above the other; biased
GRE

Example in Context

The arbitrator's partial ruling, which heavily favored the corporation, prompted the union to demand a new hearing with an independent mediator.

Synonyms

biasedunfairone-sided

Etymology

Related to being biased towards one part or side.

  • partialis (Latin) — of a part

Memory Aid

🐚Sounds like “par shell

He’s always favoring one side, like a PAR SHELL that’s only half there — so PARTIAL!

Visual Association

⚖️A scale tipped heavily to one side, with one item clearly favored over the other.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “partial” mean on the GRE?

partial (adjective) means “Favoring one side in a dispute above the other; biased”. The arbitrator's partial ruling, which heavily favored the corporation, prompted the union to demand a new hearing with an independent mediator.

How to remember “partial” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “partial” sounds like “par shell”. He’s always favoring one side, like a PAR SHELL that’s only half there — so PARTIAL!

What are synonyms for “partial”?

Common synonyms: biased, unfair, one-sided.