modern equivalent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modern equivalent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a contemporary version or counterpart of something that existed in the past. Example: "The smartphone is often considered the modern equivalent of the traditional telephone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is there a modern equivalent?

The Economist

He doesn't see any modern equivalent.

The Guardian - Sport

The internet is a modern equivalent.

The Guardian

But where is the modern equivalent?

The Guardian - Tech

There is certainly no modern equivalent to da Vinci.

The New Yorker

"Whatever pay your majesty pleases" is the modern equivalent.

The Economist

It's the modern equivalent of the California gold rush".

The New York Times

Their victims were the modern equivalent of the Nazis.

The Guardian - Opinion

And is there a modern equivalent of Kurt Cobain?

The Guardian - Music

LISA Pathfinder is the modern equivalent of Cavendish's shed.

The Guardian

A modern equivalent might be "Schoenberg and Minimalism".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modern equivalent" when you want to draw a comparison between something from the past and its contemporary counterpart. Ensure the comparison is clear and relevant to your audience.

Common error

While "modern equivalent" is generally acceptable, be mindful of overly formal usage in very casual settings. Simpler alternatives might be more appropriate depending on the context and the purpose of communicating an idea.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modern equivalent" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a predicate nominative or an object of a preposition. It identifies a contemporary entity that serves a similar purpose or role as something from the past. Ludwig confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modern equivalent" is a versatile phrase used to compare past concepts to contemporary ones. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Its usage spans various contexts, including news, business, and science, and serves to make information more accessible and relatable. When using this phrase, ensure the comparison is clear and appropriate for your audience. While the phrase is generally considered neutral, be aware of potentially more appropriate alternatives in informal settings. Keep in mind that, as the Ludwig AI states, its effective use depends on the specific comparison and desired level of clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the equivalent of today

Directly points out the relative equivalence in the present.

contemporary analogue

Focuses on a similarity in function or structure existing in the present.

present-day counterpart

Highlights the role or position held by a modern entity compared to its predecessor.

current-day parallel

Emphasizes a similar occurrence or situation happening now.

today's version

Implies an updated or evolved form of something.

modern-day stand-in

Suggests a substitute or replacement that fulfills a similar purpose.

contemporary substitute

Highlights the role of one thing taking the place of another in current times.

current iteration

Focuses on something being in a current stage of a process or product evolution.

modern interpretation

Implies a new understanding or adaptation of something from the past.

present-time manifestation

Focuses on how something appears or is expressed in the present.

FAQs

How can I use "modern equivalent" in a sentence?

You can use "modern equivalent" to compare something from the past to its current counterpart. For example, "The internet is the "modern equivalent" of the printing press".

What are some alternatives to "modern equivalent"?

Some alternatives include "contemporary analogue", "present-day counterpart", or "current-day parallel" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "modern equivalent"?

It's appropriate to use "modern equivalent" when you want to draw a direct comparison between a historical or older concept and its present-day iteration. It works best when the connection is clear and adds value to the explanation.

Is there a difference between "modern equivalent" and "contemporary version"?

While similar, "modern equivalent" implies a more direct functional or conceptual relationship to the past, whereas "contemporary version" simply suggests a more recent form. The choice depends on the specific comparison you're making.