an equal relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an equal relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship where both parties have the same level of power, influence, or importance. Example: "In a successful partnership, it is essential to maintain an equal relationship between both parties to ensure mutual respect and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

But it was never an equal relationship.

The New Yorker

"We look at this as an equal relationship".

The New York Times

The N.G.P. has to push if you are going to get an equal relationship".

The New York Times - Magazine

This is not about sex, seduction, love or an equal relationship, but it is everything to do with power.

The New York Times

I'm fully prepared to love and care for a man in an equal relationship, but no way am I going to be the sole domestic".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Steps could be taken towards this, she told them, by demanding an equal relationship, equal child rearing expectations, and equal access to flexible work practices.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Both of these countries put up with US indecision, because they did not have a choice under the alliance, which is not a equal relationship.

Huffington Post

The family members felt themselves to be members of networks, indicating a more equal relationship than in a care relationship with health-care professionals.

BMC Nursing

The argument instead is that a more equal relationship between the sexes can have a solvent effect on other inequalities and on attitudes of the kind that fuel conflict.

The Guardian - Opinion

The once proud times with opposite roles were not forgotten, explaining growing animosity and anger looking for an explanation; and even more important, how to reestablish a more equal relationship.

Huffington Post

Mr. Hatoyama took power in a historic election last summer with vows to create a more equal relationship with the United States and to relocate the base off the island or out of Japan altogether.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing interpersonal dynamics, ensure that using "an equal relationship" accurately reflects the balance of power, influence, and mutual respect between parties. Use it to emphasize fairness and reciprocity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "an equal relationship" means both parties must have identical roles or contributions. Equality refers to balanced power and respect, not necessarily uniform actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an equal relationship" functions primarily as a noun phrase, describing a state of connection or interaction characterized by balance, fairness, and mutual respect. It is often used to set expectations or evaluate the quality of interpersonal or professional bonds, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an equal relationship" is a noun phrase used to describe a connection characterized by fairness and balanced power dynamics. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news media and scientific publications. While "equal relationship" implies a balanced dynamic, it doesn't necessitate identical roles or contributions, as true equality ensures that all parties are valued and respected. To prevent misunderstandings, ensure the context clearly conveys the intended meaning, and explore alternatives like "a balanced dynamic" or "a fair partnership" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a balanced dynamic

Emphasizes the equilibrium and stability between parties, moving away from the term "relationship".

a reciprocal connection

Highlights the give-and-take nature of the interaction, changing "equal" to "reciprocal".

a fair partnership

Focuses on the just and equitable aspects of the bond, replacing "relationship" with "partnership".

a symmetrical bond

Stresses the evenness and proportionality in the link, using more formal language.

a level playing field

Shifts the context to one of opportunity and fairness, implying equality of chances rather than an established connection.

a collaborative alliance

Highlights the cooperative nature and shared goals, replacing "relationship" with a more formal "alliance".

a commensurate interaction

Emphasizes the proportional and corresponding aspects of the exchange, using more academic vocabulary.

a balanced association

Focuses on the equilibrium within the association, providing a less intimate alternative to "relationship".

a symbiotic exchange

Highlights mutual benefit and dependence, changing the nature of the relationship to a more interdependent one.

a non-hierarchical structure

Shifts the focus to the organizational framework, implying equality by removing power imbalances.

FAQs

How can I tell if I'm in an equal relationship?

Assess whether both individuals have a similar level of influence, respect, and decision-making power. If one person consistently dominates or disregards the other's input, the relationship may not be truly equal.

What does "an equal relationship" mean in a professional setting?

It implies that all parties involved have their contributions valued and have their voices heard in decision-making processes, and there is a shared understanding of responsibilities.

What can I say instead of "an equal relationship"?

You can use alternatives like "a balanced dynamic", "a fair partnership", or "a reciprocal connection" depending on the context.

Is striving for "an equal relationship" always the best approach?

While equality is often desirable, certain relationships, like those between a parent and child or a mentor and mentee, inherently involve some level of asymmetry in power or knowledge. The key is ensuring that any imbalance is respectful and beneficial.