equal

Definitions

Straight from Latin aequalis (aequus, 'even/level'). equal is the plainest member of the family: two things sitting at the same level — same amount, same value, same standing. From the adjective came the verb (to equal = to match a level) and the noun (an equal = someone on your level).

Common Collocations

• 1.equal rights平等权利
• 2.equal opportunity平等机会
• 3.equal pay同工同酬
• 4.on equal terms在平等的条件下
• 5.equal to the task能胜任

Example Sentences

• 1.

  Everyone deserves equal access to education.

• 2.

  Two plus three equals five.

• 3.

  She treats all her students as equals.

• 4.

  Few singers can equal her range and control.

Easily Confused

equal vs. equivalent — equal means exactly the same (3 = 3); equivalent means corresponding in value but not identical (one dollar is equivalent to roughly seven yuan). Use equal for true sameness, equivalent for matching worth across different things.