it is equivalent to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it is equivalent to' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that two things have the same value, amount, or level of importance. For example, "One hour of exercise is equivalent to two hours of rest."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is equivalent to 29% of its stock market value.

The Guardian - Money

It is equivalent to a neighborhood association.

The New York Times

"It is equivalent to being an Olympian athlete".

The New York Times

It is equivalent to pleading guilty to disturbing the peace.

The New York Times

It is equivalent to 1,000 tons of conventional explosive, not 1,000 pounds.

The New York Times

It is equivalent to 0.03% of the UK's total population, and 0.4% of Britain's migrant population.

The Guardian

I was taught at school that it is equivalent to two dessertspoons.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is equivalent to every male in the UK dying a bachelor.

The Guardian

"On the whole, it is equivalent to making credit easier," he said.

The New York Times

In this sense, it is equivalent to what social scientists term socialization or enculturation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In some ways, it is equivalent to the lingering symptoms of post-traumatic stress.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is equivalent to", ensure that both elements being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "reducing costs is equivalent to increasing profits", specify how costs are reduced and profits are increased.

Common error

Avoid using "it is equivalent to" when only a partial similarity exists. For instance, do not claim "being fast is equivalent to being efficient" if speed sometimes compromises quality. Instead, use phrases like "it is similar to" or "it is related to" to reflect nuanced relationships.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is equivalent to" functions as a predicate adjective, indicating that the subject is equal in value, meaning, or effect to something else. Ludwig AI confirms that it is commonly used in various contexts to draw a direct comparison.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is equivalent to" serves as a versatile tool for establishing equality or correspondence between two elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, including science, news, and general discourse. Remember to use this phrase when a clear equivalence exists and to define both elements being compared to prevent any ambiguity. If there is only a partial similarity, consider using alternatives such as "it is similar to" or "it is related to". By carefully applying this guidance, you can use "it is equivalent to" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it amounts to the same as

Rephrases to emphasize that the end result or consequence is identical.

it is the same as

Simplifies the phrasing to a more direct comparison.

it is identical to

Emphasizes an exact match or correspondence.

it is equal to

Uses a more mathematical or quantitative comparison.

it is comparable to

Suggests similarity, but not necessarily exact equivalence.

it is analogous to

Highlights a parallel or resemblance in some aspects.

it is akin to

Implies a similarity in nature or quality.

it corresponds to

Indicates a direct relationship or matching.

it is tantamount to

Expresses that the effect or consequence is virtually the same.

it is on par with

Suggests that something is equal in status or quality.

FAQs

What does "it is equivalent to" mean?

The phrase "it is equivalent to" means that two things are equal or virtually the same in value, meaning, or effect. It's used to draw a direct comparison between two distinct elements, highlighting their interchangeability or shared characteristics.

How can I use "it is equivalent to" in a sentence?

You can use "it is equivalent to" to show that two actions or items have the same outcome or significance. For example, "In this context, ignoring the warning "is equivalent to" putting lives at risk."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is equivalent to"?

Alternatives include "it is the same as", "it is equal to", or "it is tantamount to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it better to use "it is similar to" instead of "it is equivalent to"?

Use "it is similar to" when the items being compared share some qualities but are not entirely the same. "It is equivalent to" should be reserved for situations where the items are virtually interchangeable. For instance, saying "this model "is similar to" last year's" implies some differences, while "it is equivalent to" suggests no practical difference.