English Reference
adjective · verb · noun

equal

adj. · v. · n.
US /ˈikwəɫ/ UK /ˈiːkwəl/ equal UK spelling equaled, equaling, equalled

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Math

    adj.being the same in size, number, value, or rank.

    adj.identical in mathematical value, physical quantity, or social status.

    Simple

    The two teams were given an equal amount of time to finish the task.

    In context

    The treaty ensures that both nations receive equal access to the shared waterway for commercial shipping.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    adj.having the necessary strength, skill, or ability for a task.

    adj.possessing the requisite qualities or resources to meet a specific challenge; usually follows 'to'.

    Simple

    I hope I am equal to the challenge of starting this new job.

    In context

    Despite her initial nerves, she proved more than equal to the task of managing the international merger.

    Usage

    Usually used in the pattern 'equal to the task' or 'equal to the challenge'.

  3. 03 A2 Elementary Math

    v.to be the same in value or amount as something else.

    v.to be identical in value or to result in a specific total.

    Simple

    Two plus two equals four.

    In context

    The total cost of the repairs will likely equal the original purchase price of the vehicle.

    matchamount to
  4. 04 B1 Intermediate Informal

    v.to lead to a specific result or to mean the same thing.

    v.to have as a logical consequence or to be equivalent in effect.

    Simple

    In this office, working late usually equals a free lunch the next day.

    In context

    For many investors, a sudden drop in interest rates equals an immediate opportunity to refinance their debt.

  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to do something as well as someone else has done it before.

    v.to match a previous achievement or performance in quality or degree.

    Simple

    No one has been able to equal his record for the fastest marathon.

    In context

    While many artists have tried to imitate her style, few have managed to equal the emotional depth of her early work.

  6. 06 B1 Intermediate

    n.a person who has the same importance, rights, or status as you.

    n.a person or thing that possesses the same status, age, or ability as another.

    Simple

    She treats all her employees as equals and listens to their ideas.

    In context

    In the realm of theoretical physics, he was widely regarded as the equal of the greatest minds of the century.

Usage equal to · rate equal · value equal


From Middle English equal, from Latin aequālis. Doublet of aequalis and egal.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin aequālis
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated