equal

The same in size, number, amount, or another particular quality.

• Cut the cake into equal parts.
• The two boxes are equal in size.
• Is this amount equal to yours?

How to use it: equal to something (This amount is equal to half the total.); equal in something (The ropes are equal in length.)

Similar words: equivalent, identical

Opposites: unequal

Common phrases: equal parts, equal amounts, equal to something, equal values

The same in the ways that matter for a particular use or purpose.

• The two materials are equal in quality.
• Equal conditions should give us comparable results.
• These options are equal for our purposes.

How to use it: equal in something (The two products are equal in performance.)

Similar words: equivalent, comparable

Opposites: unequal

Common phrases: equal conditions, equal results, equal quality

To have the same value, amount, or measure as something else.

• Three plus three equals six.
• The expenses equal our income.
• Does this amount equal the total on your bill?

How to use it: equal something (Two plus five equals seven.)

Similar words: match

Common phrases: equal ten, equal the total, equal something

To mean something or lead to a particular result.

• More practice equals better results.
• A missed payment could equal serious trouble.
• Lower costs do not always equal higher profits.

How to use it: equal something/doing something (Ignoring the warning equals taking a serious risk.)

Similar words: mean, amount to

Common phrases: equal success, equal disaster, equal more something

To change things so they have the same amount, level, or value.

• They equaled the water levels in the tanks.
• The technician equaled the pressure in both chambers.
• We must equal the amounts before comparing them.

Similar words: equalize, balance

Common phrases: equal the levels, equal the amounts

A person or thing with the same position, importance, or standing as another.

• She spoke to him as an equal.
• The new partners work as equals.
• He finally found his equal in the debate.

How to use it: someone’s equal (She is his equal in skill and experience.)

Similar words: peer, counterpart

Common phrases: as an equal, someone’s equal

A person who has the same rights as another person.

• Everyone should be treated as an equal.
• The law recognizes both partners as equals.
• She demanded respect as his equal.

How to use it: treat someone as an equal (He treats every member of the group as an equal.)

Similar words: peer

Common phrases: as an equal, someone’s equal