Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
equal to death
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "equal to death" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing the severity or finality of a situation, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "In her eyes, betrayal was equal to death, a fate worse than any physical harm."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
8 human-written examples
But does that mean M&A is equal to death?
News & Media
On this scale 1 is considered equal to full health and 0 is equal to death.
Science
This utility score, lying between 0 (health state equal to death) and 1 (perfect health state), represents the QALY due to some intervention.
Science
We considered that each failed medical approach in simulation training is equal to death of a patient in real life and full success achieved only in one case in simulation group.
Science
Since there is no Swedish tariff for EQ5D-index, the UK EQ5D-index tariff was used to calculate the EQ5D-index values, were 0 is equal to death and 1 is equal to full health [ 16].
We have in this study transformed the individual global CHP mean scores to a 0 1 scale were 0 is equal to death and 1 is equal to full health.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
52 human-written examples
25% of students believed brain death is equal to human death.
We assumed that a moderate PEP-related adverse event is equivalent to an acute case of Q fever, a severe PEP-related adverse event is equivalent to a severe acute case or chronic case of Q fever, and a death from PEP use is equal to a death from Q fever.
Science
When the stationary phase of growth is approaching, the rate of biomass growth will slow down until the point at which the growth rate is equal to the death rate of biomasses.
Science
This is obtained by setting their production rate equal to they death rate.
Science
In case the contrast medium clearly filled the lumen of a target segmental portal vein at wedged hepatic venography, the microcatheter was primed with DMSO (ev3) with a volume equal to the death space of the microcatheter to prevent preterm solidification of Onyx.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "equal to death" to emphasize the gravity or finality of a situation, especially in formal or scientific writing where precision is key. Be aware of the metaphorical weight and choose contexts carefully.
Common error
Avoid using "equal to death" in casual conversation or informal writing, as its strong connotation may sound overly dramatic or inappropriate. Consider less intense alternatives for everyday situations.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "equal to death" functions primarily as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun to describe a state or condition that is equivalent in severity or finality to death. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is used to emphasize the extreme nature of something.
Frequent in
Science
70%
News & Media
20%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "equal to death" is grammatically correct and serves to equate a situation or condition with the finality or severity of death. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is primarily found in scientific, formal and news contexts, where its gravity and precision are most appropriate. While alternatives such as "tantamount to death" or "as good as dead" exist, "equal to death" is particularly effective in emphasizing dire or irreversible outcomes. When writing, it's essential to consider the tone and audience, avoiding overuse in informal settings to maintain its impact. By following best practices and being mindful of context, writers can effectively leverage "equal to death" to convey the seriousness of their message.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
tantamount to death
This alternative implies an equivalent effect or consequence as death, often used in formal contexts.
as good as dead
This phrase suggests a state that is practically the same as being dead, emphasizing hopelessness or lack of viability.
indistinguishable from death
This phrase highlights the difficulty in discerning a state from actual death, emphasizing its severe nature.
on par with death
This alternative suggests that something is equally as significant or impactful as death.
equivalent to dying
This emphasizes the process or experience of dying, rather than death as a final state.
amounts to death
Indicates that a situation effectively results in or is the same as death, focusing on the outcome.
synonymous with death
Suggests a strong association or interchangeable use with the concept of death, highlighting its thematic presence.
comparable to death
Indicates a degree of similarity or likeness to death, but not necessarily complete equivalence.
bears resemblance to death
This highlights the similar characteristic or attribute to the state of death.
in the same league as death
Suggests that something shares a similar level of impact or importance as death.
FAQs
How can I use "equal to death" in a sentence?
You can use "equal to death" to describe a situation or condition that is as severe or final as dying. For example, "In some cultures, dishonor is "equal to death"."
What phrases are similar to "equal to death"?
Similar phrases include "tantamount to death", "as good as dead", or "indistinguishable from death". These can be used to convey a similar sense of finality or severity.
Is it appropriate to use "equal to death" in all writing styles?
No, "equal to death" is best suited for formal writing or serious discussions where you need to emphasize the gravity of a situation. It may be too dramatic for casual or informal contexts.
How does "equal to death" compare to "as bad as death"?
"Equal to death" implies a direct equivalence, suggesting the situation is virtually the same as dying. "As bad as death" suggests that the situation is extremely unpleasant or undesirable, but not necessarily equivalent to dying.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested