On equal terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "On equal terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two or more parties are treated with the same level of fairness or equality. Example: "In negotiations, both sides must agree to operate on equal terms to ensure a fair outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On equal terms with Merion.

Independent

On equal terms.

The Guardian - Opinion

Most did very well, and one, Melanie Besner as Amour, managed to compete on equal terms.

The New York Times - Arts

Different conceptions of equality of opportunity construe this idea of competing on equal terms variously.

SEP

Theosophical meetings were one of the few places where Indians and Europeans could meet socially on equal terms.

The New York Times - Books

They are works, Matt says, made entirely on equal terms.

The Guardian - Arts

They want to know they are competing on equal terms.

The Guardian - Sport

Previously they could bid for all concessions on equal terms.

The Economist

Ms. McCormick demanded to fight on equal terms with men.

The New York Times

We showed we can compete on equal terms with them, which means we can compete on equal terms with the best".

The New York Times - Sports

You get to rub shoulders with a lot of powerful people, but rarely on equal terms.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on equal terms" to clearly indicate fairness and impartiality in situations involving competition, negotiation, or comparison. For example, "Ensure all participants compete "on equal terms" by providing the same resources and rules."

Common error

Avoid using "on equal terms" when referring to identical outcomes, rather than equal opportunities or starting conditions. For example, saying "Everyone finished "on equal terms"" when some had advantages isn't accurate. Instead, clarify if the opportunity was equal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on equal terms" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a state exists. It specifies that something is done or exists under conditions of equality and fairness, similar to what Ludwig AI provides in its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

10%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on equal terms" is a versatile and widely used expression that emphasizes fairness and impartiality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples demonstrating its use across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and formal business settings. The analysis shows that the phrase functions as an adverbial modifier, highlighting the manner in which actions are performed. While many alternative phrases exist—such as "on a level playing field" or "on an equal footing"—"on equal terms" remains a clear and effective way to convey the idea of equality of opportunity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

On the same terms

Similar to the original phrase, but emphasizes the conditions or agreements are identical.

On a level playing field

Emphasizes a fair and unbiased environment where all participants have the same opportunities.

On an equal footing

Focuses on the idea that everyone starts from the same position or has the same advantages.

On an equivalent basis

Focuses on the equivalence of the conditions or treatment.

On par with

Highlights that something or someone is at the same level or standard as something else.

With equal rights

Emphasizes the possession of the same rights and opportunities.

With parity

Stresses the concept of equality, particularly in status or remuneration.

In equal measure

Highlights the distribution of something in equal proportions.

On all fours

Highlights the equality in treatment but uses a more old-fashioned and less common wording.

Fair and square

Suggests something is done honestly and legitimately, ensuring equality in outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "on equal terms" in a sentence?

You can use "on equal terms" to describe situations where individuals or groups are treated fairly and have the same opportunities. For example, "The company aims to treat all its employees "on equal terms" regardless of their background."

What phrases are similar to "on equal terms"?

Alternatives to "on equal terms" include phrases like "on a level playing field", "on an equal footing", or "with parity". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "compete on equal terms"?

Yes, "compete on equal terms" is a common and correct usage. It indicates that individuals or groups are competing under the same rules and conditions, without unfair advantages. For example, "Athletes should "compete on equal terms", free from doping or other forms of cheating."

What is the difference between "on equal terms" and "equally"?

"On equal terms" refers to the conditions or opportunities being the same, while "equally" refers to the result or distribution being the same. You might compete "on equal terms" but not finish equally due to differences in skill or effort.