different but equal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "different but equal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions about diversity, equality, or comparisons between different entities that are considered to have equal value or status. Example: "In our organization, we believe in a culture that embraces different but equal perspectives, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued."

✓ Grammatically correct

Equality discussions

Diversity statements

Comparative analyses

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

People are different, but equal.

The New York Times

"This court's personal view," he wrote, is "that children raised by same-sex couples enjoy benefits possibly different, but equal, to those raised by opposite-sex couples".

The New York Times

"I have a dream of a world, a planet where woman and men would be equal — different, but equal," she said.

The New York Times

Even when the class was played a film of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn saying that communism was dreadful and that, now he was in the west, he could be definitive about the different but equal dreadfulness of capitalism, there was a sense that amazing people would come up with something better.

The Guardian - Opinion

One precept this relies on is an amplified belief in the risks of certain types of parenting over other types; the minute you accept the idea of different but equal – formula feeding, say, as different from breastfeeding, but fine all the same – you abnegate your right as a government to stick your oar in.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He was different, but equal.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

They require a talent different from, but equal to, that of theatrical performers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For the binary and multi-size systems, the particles had different sizes but equal densities.

Chemical Engineering Science

Until then, districts across America had very different populations but equal representation, so that some (mostly rural) communities were over-represented in legislatures and Congress, while others were under-represented.

The Economist

OccupySandy and StrikeDebt, using the organizational and social media skills and tools honed over the past year, have raised over $1,000,000 for these very different -- but equal -- projects.

Huffington Post

This concept includes understanding of the different roles but equal importance of men and women in society.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "different but equal", ensure the context clearly defines the criteria by which the differing entities are considered equal.

Common error

Avoid stating that things are "different but equal" without providing a basis for the claim of equality. Always clarify the specific aspects in which they hold equal value or status.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different but equal" functions as a conjunction phrase used to express the idea that two or more entities, while distinct in certain aspects, hold the same value, status, or rights. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is valid in the english language and widely used. The phrase is often used in the context of discussions about diversity, equality, or comparisons.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

17%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

6%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "different but equal" is a powerful conjunction used to assert that while entities may possess distinct characteristics, they hold equivalent value or status. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is valid in the english language and widely used across various contexts, from news articles and business documents to wikis and scientific papers. It functions primarily to promote fairness and inclusivity, conveying the message that diversity should not equate to inequality. While grammatically correct and commonly used, it's crucial to ensure claims of equality are substantiated with clear reasoning to avoid ambiguity or misuse. Alternatives such as "distinct yet equivalent" and "diverse but balanced" can offer nuanced variations in meaning depending on the specific context. In summary, "different but equal" is a valuable tool for advocating for equal opportunities and respect in a diverse world.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contrasting yet identical in value

Highlights opposites possessing the same importance or worth.

dissimilar yet of equal worth

Strongly asserts differences without diminishing individual value.

distinct yet equivalent

Emphasizes the unique characteristics while stressing equal importance.

separate but equitable

Stresses physical or conceptual separation but ensures fairness.

unique but alike

Highlights individuality while suggesting underlying similarities.

varied but comparable

Focuses on the range of differences but maintains they can be compared on equal footing.

unalike but fair

Simple emphasis on fairness despite the contrast.

diverse but balanced

Suggests an equilibrium despite the presence of diversity.

individual yet unified

Points out uniqueness that contributes to a larger unity.

distinct but parallel

Highlights differences coexisting without intersecting.

FAQs

How can I use "different but equal" in a sentence?

Use "different but equal" to show appreciation or acknowledgement of differences while maintaining equal value or status. For example, "In our organization, we believe in a culture that embraces "different but equal" perspectives, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued."

What's a good alternative to "different but equal"?

Alternatives include "distinct yet equivalent", "diverse but balanced", or "dissimilar yet of equal worth" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "different but equal" in formal writing?

Yes, "different but equal" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing equality, diversity, or comparative analyses. Ludwig AI confirms the expression is valid in the english language.

What's the difference between "different but equal" and "separate but equal"?

"Different but equal" generally refers to valuing diversity while maintaining equal status. "Separate but equal" historically refers to segregation, which aims to create equality but usually fails. "Different but equal" is about appreciating differences, while "separate but equal" often masks discrimination.