Words / B1

EEKW-uh-l/ˈiːkwəl/

Equal means the same in size, number, or value: equal pay, equal rights, equal to. Same often needs the (the same size); equivalent is more formal for matching value. Equality is the noun in news and essays; equally is the adverb. On equal terms means with the same chance — do not write “more equal.”

Meaning

The same in size, number, or value.

Examples

• “The two teams have equal points.”
• “All candidates should have an equal chance.”
• “One kilometre is equal to 1,000 metres.”

Good to know

equal pay / rights. equal to + number. Noun: equality. Adverb: equally.

Near in meaning

equivalent

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