equal footing

USAGE SUMMARY

"equal footing" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom that is used to describe two people or entities being on the same level of importance or having the same rights or privileges. For example, "After finalizing the contract, both partners were on equal footing in the business venture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We will again be on equal footing.

The New York Times

A. We're on totally equal footing.

The New York Times

They bring all staff together on an equal footing.

The Guardian

What would such "an equal footing" look like?

The New York Times

"When will this be put on an equal footing?

The New York Times

This does not put both parents on an equal footing.

The Guardian - Opinion

(Pari passu is a Latin phrase meaning "on equal footing").

The New York Times

I feel like we're on equal footing as parents.

The New York Times

A. Co-chairs, co-owners, equal footing, co-decision-making.

The New York Times

Now Illumination at the very least stands on equal footing.

The New York Times

That way everyone will be on equal footing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "equal footing" to emphasize fairness and impartiality, especially when discussing opportunities, rights, or treatment. For instance, "The new policy aims to put all employees on an equal footing for promotion".

Common error

Avoid using "equal footing" when referring to identical outcomes, as it primarily relates to equal opportunities or starting points, not guaranteed results. For instance, don't say "Everyone achieved equal results, putting them on equal footing", but "Everyone had the same resources, putting them on equal footing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "equal footing" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as a predicate nominative or within prepositional phrases. It describes a state of equality, balance, or fairness. As Ludwig AI explains, it's about being on the same level of importance or having the same rights and privileges.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "equal footing" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes a state of equality, fairness, or equivalence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts. It is used to communicate the idea of providing the same opportunities, status, or treatment to individuals or groups. While it is most frequently encountered in news and media, science, and formal business contexts, its versatility makes it applicable across various registers. Related phrases include "level playing field" and "on par", which offer similar meanings but with slight differences in emphasis. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects equal opportunities or starting points, and avoid applying it to situations requiring identical outcomes. With its wide applicability and clear meaning, "equal footing" remains a valuable asset for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

same footing

Simple variation using 'same' instead of 'equal', with little to no impact on overall meaning.

level playing field

This alternative suggests a situation where everyone has the same opportunities and advantages, emphasizing fairness.

on par

This alternative indicates that two or more things are at the same level or standard.

on the same level

This alternative highlights that individuals or groups are at the same rank or status.

equitable basis

This alternative focuses on fairness and justice in the distribution of resources or opportunities.

equal terms

This alternative emphasizes that parties are engaging in a relationship or agreement with the same rights and privileges.

equally

This alternative is a more general adverb indicating that something is done or experienced in the same way or to the same degree.

on equal ground

This alternative emphasizes equality in opportunity or access, removing disadvantages.

comparable position

Implies a similarity in status or rank that allows for fair comparison or interaction.

even standing

Highlights an equal or balanced state in terms of authority, reputation, or influence.

FAQs

How can I use "equal footing" in a sentence?

Use "equal footing" to describe situations where individuals or groups have the same opportunities or status. For example, "The company's goal is to ensure that all employees are on "equal footing" regardless of their background".

What's a good alternative to "equal footing"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "level playing field", "on par", or "on the same level".

Is it correct to say "identical footing" instead of "equal footing"?

While "identical footing" can sometimes be used, "equal footing" is the more common and widely accepted phrase to describe a situation of fairness and equal opportunity.

What is the difference between "equal opportunity" and "equal footing"?

"Equal opportunity" refers to the principle of providing the same chances to everyone, while ""equal footing"" describes the state of being in a situation where everyone starts with the same advantages or disadvantages. They are closely related but not interchangeable.