What is Inequality in Math?
The statement that one quantity is less than or greater than another quantity. A statement indicating that two quantities are not equal, using symbols > (greater than), < (less than), or ≠ (not equal to).
An inequality is a math sentence that shows one value is bigger, smaller, or just not equal to another. It uses special symbols to compare two numbers or expressions:
- < means “less than”
- > means “greater than”
- ≤ means “less than or equal to”
- ≥ means “greater than or equal to”
- ≠ means “not equal to”
For example:
- 4 < 7 means 4 is less than 7
- x ≥ 10 means x is 10 or greater
- 3 + y ≠ 5 means 3 plus y is not equal to 5
Inequalities are used to describe a range of possible answers, not just one. They’re helpful in real-life situations like:
- Figuring out if someone is tall enough to ride a roller coaster
- Knowing whether a number is above or below a certain limit
- Solving problems with budgets, temperatures, or scores
When Do Students Learn About Inequalities?
Students begin comparing values in early grades and learn to use inequality symbols as they develop number sense and move into algebra.
Grades 1–2 – Understanding Comparison
Students learn to compare numbers using phrases like “greater than” and “less than,” and begin using < and > symbols.
Grades 3–5 – Writing and Solving Simple Inequalities
Students use inequality symbols in math sentences and solve simple inequalities involving addition and subtraction.
Grades 6+ – Working with Inequalities in Algebra
Students solve inequalities with variables, graph solutions on number lines or coordinate planes, and explore compound inequalities.
