Words / B2

i-KWIV-uh-l-uh-nt/ɪˈkwɪvələnt/

Equivalent means equal in value, amount, meaning, or effect, even if not identical: equivalent to, or the equivalent of two hours' work. Equal is simpler (same number); equivalent allows a conversion or rough match. As a noun it appears in comparisons (a British equivalent of the SAT); equivalence is the related noun.

Meaning

Equal in value, amount, or meaning.

Examples

• “One kilometre is equivalent to about 0.6 miles.”
• “This diploma is equivalent to the first year of a degree.”
• “She paid the equivalent of a week's wages for the ticket.”

Good to know

equivalent to; the equivalent of. Equal = same; equivalent = matching in worth/meaning.

Near in meaning

equal

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