equity, inclusion and diversity

Meanings

1. 1phraseuncountableformalbusiness

   The set of policies and practices that aim to make an organization fair, welcoming and representative of all groups.

   Grammar: Used as a single concept, often with 'in' or 'on': a policy on equity, inclusion and diversity.

   Patterns

   • a policy on equity, inclusion and diversity
   • equity, inclusion and diversity training
   • improve equity, inclusion and diversity

   The company published a report on its progress in equity, inclusion and diversity.

   All new managers must complete equity, inclusion and diversity training within their first month.

   She leads the equity, inclusion and diversity team at a large hospital.

2. 2phraseuncountableformal

   The principle that people of all backgrounds should have fair access, feel they belong, and be represented.

   Grammar: Often used after 'commitment to': a commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity.

   Patterns

   • commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity
   • promote equity, inclusion and diversity

   The university stated its commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity in its strategic plan.

   Community groups are pushing for more equity, inclusion and diversity in local government.

Common combinations

equity, inclusion and diversity policy

The new equity, inclusion and diversity policy covers hiring, promotion and pay.

equity, inclusion and diversity training

Staff said the equity, inclusion and diversity training was useful but too short.

a commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity

The CEO repeated his commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity at the annual meeting.

improve equity, inclusion and diversity

The board set clear goals to improve equity, inclusion and diversity over five years.

Synonyms and how they differ

DEI

This is the common abbreviation, especially in American English; 'equity, inclusion and diversity' is the full, more formal phrase.

EDI

This abbreviation is more common in Britain and Ireland; it stands for the same three ideas.

diversity and inclusion

This pair is often used instead, but it leaves out 'equity', which stresses fairness of access and outcomes.

Opposites

Word family

equitable adjective

Fair and just, especially in how people are treated.

inclusive adjective

Including people of all backgrounds and making them feel welcome.

diverse adjective

Made up of people or things of many different types.

Commonly confused: equity, inclusion and diversity or equality? equity, inclusion and diversity or diversity?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “equity, inclusion and diversity”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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