Equal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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equal
[ˈiːkwəl ]
Definitions
mathematics
Being the same in quantity, size, degree, or value.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| equal |
This term is used when two or more things have the same value, rank, or level of importance.
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| identical |
This word is appropriate when two or more things are exactly the same in every detail.
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| equivalent |
Use this term when referring to things that have the same amount, value, or function but are not necessarily identical.
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| same |
Use this term to describe things that are exactly alike, belonging to the same group, or sharing an identical quality or characteristic.
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Examples of usage
- The two sides of the equation are equal.
- All angles in an equilateral triangle are equal.
social justice
The state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities.
Synonyms
egalitarianism, fairness, parity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| equal |
Generally used to indicate that two or more things are the same in value, size, quantity, or importance. Often applies in everyday language when comparing objects or people.
|
| fairness |
Refers to impartial and just treatment or behavior without favoritism or discrimination. Commonly used in contexts involving ethical judgment, decision-making, and social interactions.
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| egalitarianism |
A principle or belief in human equality, especially with respect to social, political, and economic rights and privileges. It is often used in discussions about social justice and political theory.
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| parity |
Denotes equivalence or equality, often in terms of status or pay. It is frequently used in economic, financial, and professional contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The movement aims to achieve gender equality.
- We believe in the principle of equal pay for equal work.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Mathematics
- In math, an equal sign (=) shows that two things are the same in value.
- The concept of equality in mathematics forms the basis for many equations and functions.
- The theory of equal ratios helped in the development of proportional reasoning in mathematics.
Philosophy
- Philosophers have long debated the idea of moral and social equality, examining what it means to be treated fairly.
- The Enlightenment thinkers emphasized inherent rights to equality, influencing modern democracies.
- Equality is often viewed as a foundation for justice, where everyone has access to the same rights and opportunities.
Social Justice
- The equality movement seeks to ensure that all people have the same rights regardless of their background.
- Historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. championed the idea of equality during the civil rights movement.
- Modern discussions around equality often focus on gender, race, and economic disparity.
Science
- Equal forces acting upon an object keep it in a state of balance, key in physics.
- In biology, the concept of genetic equality is observed in the way both parents contribute to the offspring's traits.
- Equal growth conditions in experiments ensure that results are reliable and accurate.
Origin of 'equal'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'aequalis', which means 'level' or 'uniform'.
- In Middle English, it was 'equale', which kept the meaning of sameness.
- The root word links to the ideas of balance and fairness in many languages.
The word 'equal' originated from the Latin word 'aequālis', meaning 'uniform' or 'identical'. The concept of equality has been a fundamental principle in various aspects of human society, including law, politics, and social movements. The pursuit of equality has led to significant changes in the fight against discrimination and the promotion of fairness and justice.
See also: egalitarian, equalitarian, equality, equalization, equalize, equalizing, equally, equals, equivocal, inequal, inequality, unequal, unequaled, unequalled, unequally.