not my equal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not my equal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a perceived difference in status, ability, or worth between oneself and another person. Example: "In terms of experience and expertise, I believe he is not my equal in this field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"You are not my equal," Erdoğan told Abadi.

The New Yorker

"That woman is not my equal!" But as the drama moves forward, the terrain subtly changes.

The New York Times

Fragile alliance against Islamic State frays as Turkish president scolds Iraqi leader: 'You are not my equal'.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

When I have sex I like to have my brains fucked out; I'm not having anyone touching my brain who isn't my equal.

The Guardian - Arts

'I need a total supporter because you can only support me; you can't be my equal.

The Guardian

Because my lifestyle does not equal my work.

Huffington Post

Worst of all, if I were in the Oklahoma National Guard, I would be reminded that my sacrifice was not equal to that of my fellow servicemembers, solely because I love a man and not a woman.

Huffington Post

In other words, my book did not give equal weight to each and every San Francisco tribe, particularly the ones that Ullman seems to feel most strongly about.

The New York Times - Books

A vote for Trump/Pence brings us one step closer to their vision, one which does not include equal rights for my family, or families like mine.

Huffington Post

Juror No. 775 wrote: "The amount of payment for jury duty is not equal to my rent, let alone other living expenses.

The New York Times

Yet even in late adolescence, I felt our parents' expectations of my brother were not equal to those they had of me, and I thought this unfair to him.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not my equal" when you want to express a clear distinction in status, skill, or importance between yourself and another person. Ensure the context supports this assertive statement.

Common error

Avoid using "not my equal" in professional or team environments where collaboration and mutual respect are essential. This phrase can create a hostile atmosphere and undermine teamwork.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not my equal" functions as a declarative statement to assert a perceived difference in status, ability, or worth. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is used to express a sense of superiority.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not my equal" is a declarative statement used to assert a perceived difference in status, ability, or worth. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. However, its frequency is rare, and its use can be considered arrogant or condescending depending on the context. Predominantly found in News & Media, this phrase serves to establish dominance or express disdain. Alternatives include "not on my level" and "not in my league", but users should be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation in collaborative settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not on my level

Emphasizes a difference in understanding, experience, or achievement.

not in my league

Suggests a significant difference in skill, status, or wealth, making direct comparison inappropriate.

out of my class

Similar to "not in my league", implying a disparity in status or sophistication.

of a different caliber

Suggests a higher level of competence or quality.

in a different class

Highlights a clear distinction in quality or ability.

incomparable to me

Highlights the lack of comparability due to vast differences.

beneath my dignity

Indicates that something is considered too demeaning or unworthy for someone to do or be associated with.

not worthy of me

Expresses that someone or something does not merit one's attention or association.

not fit to lace my shoes

An idiom expressing extreme contempt or disdain, indicating someone is vastly inferior.

beyond compare

Indicates that someone or something is so exceptional that comparison is impossible.

FAQs

How can I use "not my equal" in a sentence?

You can use "not my equal" to express a difference in status or ability, such as, "In terms of experience, he is "not my equal"."

What are some alternatives to "not my equal"?

Some alternatives include "not on my level", "not in my league", or "out of my class", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "not my equal" in a formal setting?

Using "not my equal" in a formal setting can be perceived as arrogant or condescending. It's generally best to use more tactful language to express differences in status or ability.

What is the difference between "not my equal" and "not my peer"?

"Not my peer" indicates that someone isn't on the same professional or social level, while "not my equal" suggests a broader difference in worth, status or capability.