is substantially equivalent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is substantially equivalent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts such as legal, scientific, or technical discussions to indicate that two items or concepts are similar enough in function or effect. Example: "The new product is substantially equivalent to the previous model, meeting all necessary safety standards."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"Taken as a whole, the Reform Treaty produces a general framework which is substantially equivalent to the Constitutional Treaty.

The Guardian - Opinion

Compare [former] Equity Rule 73 (Preliminary Injunctions and Temporary Restraining Orders) which is substantially equivalent to the statutes.

Cornell University

Companies can gain this exemption by demonstrating that the GM food is "substantially equivalent" to a prior existing food in terms of composition, nutrition, and safety.

Harvard University

The shorter approval pathway requires companies to show a product is "substantially equivalent" to one already on the market and typically does not require human testing.

The New York Times

Despite this, manufacturers have claimed (and the FDA has historically concurred) that every subsequent AED is substantially equivalent to its antediluvian ancestors from 1976.

The Economist

Under that pathway, a producer need show only that a new product is "substantially equivalent" to one already sold to gain approval.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

There is also doubt that ObTape really was substantially equivalent.

The New York Times

The FDA has ruled that they are substantially equivalent to conventionally grown varieties.

The Guardian - Opinion

If it is not, they are considered to be substantially equivalent.

Cornell University

In a report a fortnight ago, it claimed the treaty was substantially equivalent to the rejected constitution.

The Guardian

The FDA's policy on GM foods is that they are "substantially equivalent" to conventionally produced foods.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is substantially equivalent", ensure you can clearly articulate the criteria by which the items are being compared. Provide specific examples or data points to support your assertion of equivalence.

Common error

Avoid using "is substantially equivalent" loosely without providing concrete evidence or clear criteria for comparison. Vague claims can weaken your argument and mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is substantially equivalent" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a subject's state of being in relation to another entity. It indicates a significant degree of similarity or functional parity, as seen in Ludwig's examples related to medical devices and food regulations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is substantially equivalent" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to denote a significant degree of similarity between two entities. As evidenced by Ludwig, it finds common application across diverse fields such as science, law, and regulation, particularly when comparing medical devices, food products, or legal treaties. While it implies a considerable overlap, it acknowledges that minor differences may still exist. To ensure precision, clearly define the criteria for comparison and provide supporting evidence when using this phrase. Common alternatives include "is largely comparable" and "is effectively equivalent", each carrying slightly different connotations. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and widespread usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is effectively equivalent

Similar in the effect or outcome produced.

is largely comparable

Replaces "substantially equivalent" with a more general term for comparison, implying a significant but not necessarily complete overlap.

is virtually identical

Implies that any differences are so minor as to be negligible.

is essentially identical

Suggests a very high degree of similarity, almost to the point of being the same.

is practically the same

Emphasizes the practical consequences of the similarity, rather than the theoretical.

is nearly indistinguishable

Focuses on the difficulty in telling the difference between the two things.

is almost equal

Highlights the quantitative aspect of equivalence.

is broadly similar

Implies a general resemblance but allows for notable differences.

is much the same

A more informal way of saying something is very similar.

is closely related

Suggests a connection or association, but not necessarily equivalence in function or form.

FAQs

What does "is substantially equivalent" mean in a legal context?

In legal terms, "is substantially equivalent" often implies that something meets the essential requirements or functions in a similar way, even if not identical. This is commonly used in patent law or regulatory approvals where a new product or process needs to be similar to an existing one.

How is the phrase "is substantially equivalent" used in science?

In science, "is substantially equivalent" indicates that two substances, processes, or results are similar enough to be considered the same for practical purposes. For example, a genetically modified food might be considered "is substantially equivalent" to its non-modified counterpart if it has the same nutritional value and poses no additional risks.

Which is more accurate, saying something "is substantially equivalent" or "is identical"?

"Is identical" implies a perfect match in every aspect. "Is substantially equivalent" suggests a high degree of similarity, but acknowledges minor differences may exist. Use "is substantially equivalent" when there are slight variations that don't affect the primary function or purpose.

What are some alternatives to "is substantially equivalent"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "is largely comparable", "is essentially identical", or "is effectively equivalent". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.