Even: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to emphasize something that is surprising or extreme

• She didn't even call me to say she was coming.
• The whole place was silent, even the birds stopped singing.

Used to indicate that two or more things are the same in degree or importance

• All students should be treated equally.
• She is equally responsible for the project.

Used to compare two similar things or situations

• She plays the piano just as well as her brother.
• Just as you want respect, you should also give it.

Used to indicate that something is true in the same way as something else

• She has a beautifully landscaped garden. Likewise, her house is very well decorated.
• I don't have time to prepare supper, and likewise, I don't have time to wash the dishes.

Used to describe a flat or smooth surface, or to indicate that something is divisible by two without a remainder.

• The table needs an even surface before we can eat
• Four is an even number

Refers to being the same in quantity, size, degree, or value; often used in contexts involving comparison.

• All people should have equal rights
• The two teams were equal in skill

Describes a state where weight or importance is distributed evenly, used in physical and metaphorical senses.

• She maintains a balanced diet
• The argument was fair and balanced

Used to describe something that is flat and not inclined, or someone being calm and reasonable.

• The ground must be level before placing the shed
• He remained level-headed during the crisis

Often used when referring to a balanced or equal state, or when emphasizing an unexpected situation.

• She tried to keep her voice even despite being angry.
• Even the best athletes make mistakes.

Refers to making something horizontal or even, often used in construction and design.

• They used a spirit level to check if the shelf was properly level.
• The floor needs to be level before laying the tiles.

Describes making a surface free of roughness, lumps, or irregularities.

• She used sandpaper to smooth the wooden table.
• The cream is designed to smooth out wrinkles.

Used when making something flat or more level, often by applying pressure.

• He used a rolling pin to flatten the dough.
• The construction workers had to flatten the ground before building.