as tantamount to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as tantamount to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express that two things are equal in value or effect. For example: "Not doing the required homework is tantamount to not wanting to pass the class."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Other managers of smaller clubs lucky enough to have coveted players on their books see transfer windows as tantamount to restraint of trade.

BBC

Writing on his Facebook page, Erdan described hunger striking by prisoners as tantamount to a "type of suicide attack" and a "threat" to security.

Vice

This strikes me as tantamount to piracy".

The New York Times

Both see them as tantamount to an amnesty.

The Economist

Many Democrats condemn such efforts as tantamount to privatizing the program.

The New York Times

This was treated, by conservatives, as tantamount to attempted political murder.

The New Yorker

But both the snowmobile industry and environmentalists saw today's announcement as tantamount to scrapping the ban.

The New York Times

They pulled out, promising a peaceful disengagement from Zambia, a move denounced in Zambia's capital, Lusaka, as tantamount to treason.

Independent

The I.C.R.C. has termed the treatment of detainees in Guantánamo in the recent past as "tantamount to torture".

The New Yorker

If Warren had been the only non-signer, it would have been seen as tantamount to a declaration of candidacy.

The New Yorker

Regulators, he said, often see privacy as tantamount to secrecy, arguing that personal information should be closed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as tantamount to" when you want to emphasize that two actions, concepts, or situations have essentially the same effect or consequence. This can add weight and clarity to your argument.

Common error

While "as tantamount to" is a valid phrase, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Choose simpler alternatives like "the same as" or "equal to" for a more natural tone in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as tantamount to" serves as a predicate adjective, linking a subject to a state or condition of near equivalence. Examples from Ludwig show its use in equating actions, policies, or conditions to other significant outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as tantamount to" functions as a formal way to express a strong degree of equivalence, indicating that two things are virtually the same in effect or significance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news, media, science, and encyclopedia contexts. While suitable for formal writing, simpler alternatives may be preferred in casual conversation. Use "as tantamount to" to emphasize the weight and clarity of your arguments by equating actions or situations to other significant outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equal to

Indicates direct equivalence in value or measure.

synonymous with

Implies that two terms or concepts are interchangeable.

amounts to

Suggests that something has a particular result or effect.

is the same as

A simple and direct expression of equality.

virtually identical to

Highlights a near-perfect similarity, with only minor differences.

functionally equivalent to

Focuses on the equivalence in function or operation, even if the form differs.

for all intents and purposes

Acknowledges technical differences but emphasizes practical equivalence.

in effect

Indicates the real or practical consequences of something.

in essence

Refers to the fundamental nature or core meaning.

bears a resemblance to

States that something has common qualities of appearance or features.

FAQs

How can I use "as tantamount to" in a sentence?

Use "as tantamount to" to equate two things, suggesting they are virtually the same in effect or significance. For instance, "Refusing to cooperate is as tantamount to admitting guilt."

What's a simpler way to say "as tantamount to"?

Alternatives include "equal to", "the same as", or "amounts to". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "as tantamount to" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "as tantamount to" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a precise meaning and is well-recognized in academic, legal, and professional contexts.

What is the difference between "as tantamount to" and "similar to"?

"As tantamount to" implies a virtual equivalence in effect or consequence, while "similar to" suggests only a resemblance or likeness. "As tantamount to" is a stronger statement of equivalence.