B1adjective1K

Equal

UK /["/ˈiːkwəl/"]/US /["/ˈiːkwəl/"]/

Definition

the same in size, quantity, value, etc. as something else

In simple words: The same in number, amount, or value.

Examples

  • All students should have equal opportunities to succeed.
  • The two teams were equal in skill, making the game very exciting.
  • She emphasized that every opinion is equal and deserves respect.
  • In mathematics, two plus two is equal to four.
  • They made an equal contribution to the project, splitting the work evenly.
  • The job offers an equal salary for all employees regardless of gender.

Usage notes

Used to describe things that have the same value or amount. Avoid using in contexts where comparison is not implied, such as when discussing inequality or differences.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'equal' as 'E-Q-U-A-L' — everyone on the same line (or scale).

Collocations

  • be
  • become
  • make something
  • absolutely
  • exactly
  • in every way
  • in
  • to
  • be
  • be born
  • genuinely
  • truly
  • be
  • feel
  • prove
  • more than

Synonyms

  • identical
  • equalized
  • equivalent
  • matching
  • uniform

Antonyms

  • unequal
  • uneven
  • disparate

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'equivalent' — 'equal' refers to exact matches, 'equivalent' may indicate similarity.
  • Using 'equal' incorrectly with non-count nouns — remember 'equal to' when referring to standards or measures.