an equal reaction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an equal reaction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing physics, particularly Newton's third law, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Example: "When the rocket engines fire, they produce an equal reaction that propels the rocket upward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Exclusion breeds an equal reaction.

The New York Times - Books

Which brings us to the late, great first baseman of physics, Sir Isaac Newton, who wrote, "To every action there is always opposed an equal reaction".

The New York Times

Newton suggested that, as each lamina slips over the one below, it exerts a sort of frictional force upon the latter in the forward direction, in which case the upper lamina is bound to experience an equal reaction in the backward direction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Of course for every new feature, there is an equal reaction from the competition, regardless of who leads.

TechCrunch

What this says about society is up for grabs, although one possible interpretation is: The action set in motion by contemporary conspicuous consumption will inevitably provoke -- as Isaac Newton said in a different context -- an equal reaction.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But a Newtonian law works in international politics – to every action an opposite and equal reaction.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It can have an opposite and equal reaction," Rick Davis, the campaign manager, said.

The New York Times

Newton's Third Law states, "for every action there is an opposite and equal reaction".

Huffington Post

All I remember from my science class is a little rule that says, "For every action there is an opposite and equal reaction".

Huffington Post

For some, the experience left a small residue of disillusionment with the machinations of the grownup world — not as bad as when the Dodgers moved to Los Angeles, perhaps, but a palpable addition to the stultification that, come the nineteen-sixties, would generate an opposite and more than equal reaction.

The New Yorker

You will be pleasantly surprised how quickly your actions find opposite and equal reactions in a connected world.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing Newton's Third Law, use "an equal reaction" to accurately describe the counterforce that arises from an action. For broader contexts, consider "a proportionate response" or "a corresponding effect" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "equal" means the reaction is identical in all aspects. In physics, "equal" refers to magnitude, but the reaction acts in the opposite direction. In social contexts, it implies a similar degree of response, not necessarily an identical one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an equal reaction" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It describes a response or effect that is equivalent in some measurable way to a preceding action. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is correct and can be used in many contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an equal reaction" is a grammatically correct phrase, though used relatively uncommonly. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Its most frequent use is within news and media, encyclopedias and wiki contexts, often in reference to Newton's Third Law. While its scientific roots suggest formality, its applicability spans various registers. Remember that "equal" implies proportionality rather than identity. When writing, consider alternatives like "a proportionate response" or "a corresponding effect" for varied expression. Be mindful to accurately reflect the relationship between the action and response, and avoid assuming the reaction is identical in all respects. As a trained engineer, you will be familiar with Newton's third law: "For every action there is "an equal and opposite reaction"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a proportionate response

This alternative emphasizes the idea of the response being in direct proportion to the initial action or stimulus.

a matching response

This phrase suggests that the response is similar in nature or type to the action that prompted it.

a corresponding effect

This focuses on the result or consequence of an action, highlighting that the effect is related and of similar magnitude.

a reciprocal action

This indicates an action done in return, suggesting a mutual exchange or interaction.

a commensurate reply

This implies that the reply or answer is appropriate and of equal measure to what was initially stated or done.

a balanced counteraction

This suggests a reaction that restores equilibrium or cancels out the initial force or effect.

a similar comeback

This is more informal, indicating a return or response that mirrors the original action.

a parallel consequence

This emphasizes that the result is aligned with and mirrors the originating action.

an equivalent repercussion

This highlights the result with a slightly negative connotation.

a retaliatory measure

This implies a reactive action taken to get revenge.

FAQs

How can I use "an equal reaction" in a sentence?

You can use "an equal reaction" to describe a corresponding response to an action, often in the context of physics or social dynamics. For example: "The policy change provoked "an equal reaction" from the community".

What phrases can I use instead of "an equal reaction"?

Alternatives to "an equal reaction" include "a proportionate response", "a matching response", or "a corresponding effect", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always "an equal reaction" or can it be "a similar reaction"?

While "an equal reaction" implies a quantitative equivalence (especially in physics), "a similar reaction" ("a similar reaction") suggests a qualitative likeness. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing magnitude or type of response.

What's the difference between "an equal reaction" and "an opposite reaction"?

"An equal reaction" focuses on the magnitude or intensity of the response, while "an opposite reaction" ("an opposite reaction") emphasizes the direction or nature of the response being contrary to the initial action. Newton's Third Law combines both concepts.