equate it with

USAGE SUMMARY

"equate it with" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when making a comparison between two things that are seen to be similar or equal. For example: "Many people equate success with fame and fortune, but I prefer to measure it in terms of inner peace and satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Proponents said the change was needed to put Amtrak back to its pre-9/11 gun policy and equate it with airline security measures that allow unloaded, locked handguns in checked baggage.

The New York Times

Try to find a mayoral candidate who doesn't practically equate it with original sin.

The New York Times

We are used to revisionism in biography and tend to equate it with progress towards truth.

The Guardian - Books

"I'd equate it with going to an estate sale in Monaco or the south of France".

The New York Times

Internet utopians believe the crowd is the future, and equate it with democracy.

The Guardian - Arts

That candor endears her to fans, who evidently equate it with authenticity.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

They equated it with atheism.

The New York Times

He's contemptuous of his own father's "non-confrontational" approach, and equates it with irresponsibility.

The New Yorker

He equates it with a willingness to hurt a fellow man.

The Guardian - Sport

But I'm very disappointed if they say they're equating it with a normal teenage experience.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There are times when her test for sexism – equating it with a lack of politeness – will not work.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "equate it with" when you want to argue two distinct concepts share a core similarity. For example, "Many people equate a big wedding with a happy marriage."

Common error

Avoid using "equate it with" when the comparison is weak or misleading. Overstating equivalence can lead to misunderstandings or misrepresentations of the facts. For example, be careful about saying "equate healthy food with tasteless food" because the phrase can create unnecessary concern.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "equate it with" functions as a comparative verb phrase, used to draw a parallel between two subjects, suggesting they are similar or equivalent. As Ludwig AI states, it suggests that two things are seen to be similar or equal.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

19%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "equate it with" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that serves to draw comparisons or establish equivalencies between two things. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts. While prevalent in News & Media, it also finds application in scientific and general writing. Use it carefully, ensuring the comparison is valid, and remember that alternatives like "compare it to" or "liken it to" may be more appropriate depending on the desired nuance. Remember not to overstate equivalencies to maintain accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compare it to

Focuses on highlighting similarities between two things, rather than implying they are the same.

identify it with

Implies a strong connection or association, often to the point of considering them the same.

liken it to

Suggests a resemblance or similarity, often used in a figurative sense.

consider it similar to

Expresses a judgment of similarity, leaving room for differences.

regard it as

Implies a formal or considered judgment of similarity or equivalence.

associate it with

Highlights a connection or relationship, without necessarily implying equivalence.

draw a parallel with

Focuses on highlighting analogous aspects between two distinct things.

relate it to

Connects something to another, often implying a cause-and-effect relationship or a shared context.

see it as

Presents a particular interpretation or viewpoint.

assimilate it to

Suggests integrating something into a larger system or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "equate it with" in a sentence?

You can use "equate it with" to draw a comparison, implying similarity or equivalence between two things. For example, "Some people "equate success with money", but true success is more than financial gain".

What are some alternatives to "equate it with"?

Alternatives include phrases like "compare it to", "liken it to", or "associate it with", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always accurate to use "equate it with"?

No, it's not always accurate. Use "equate it with" only when the comparison is valid and the two things share significant similarities. Avoid using it when the comparison is a stretch or could be misleading.

What's the difference between "equate it with" and "compare it to"?

"Equate it with" suggests a stronger similarity, even equivalence, while "compare it to" simply highlights similarities and differences without implying they are the same.