on equal footing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'on equal footing' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe when two people, groups, or entities are on the same level, having an equal status and not favoring one side over the other. For example, "In the negotiation, both parties entered on equal footing, so neither had an advantage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Pari passu" is a Latin phrase that roughly means "on equal footing".

The New York Times

We will again be on equal footing.

The New York Times

(Pari passu is a Latin phrase meaning "on equal footing").

The New York Times

I feel like we're on equal footing as parents.

The New York Times

Now Illumination at the very least stands on equal footing.

The New York Times

"It's just a struggle to get on equal footing.

The New York Times

That way everyone will be on equal footing.

The New York Times

Therefore, the parties do not come to the "starting gate" on equal footing.

Columbia University

Our approach treats massive and massless flavor fields on equal footing, including the mesons.

Nuclear Physics B

Pari passu is a Latin phrase meaning, roughly, "on equal footing".

The New York Times

"I prefer the food and the wine to be on equal footing".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on equal footing" to emphasize fairness and lack of advantage between parties. For example, "The new regulations put all companies on equal footing."

Common error

Avoid using "on equal footing" when the context requires highlighting existing power imbalances or disparities. Using it in such contexts can diminish the actual inequalities. For example, don't say, "Despite their historical disadvantages, they are now on equal footing" without acknowledging the lingering effects of those disadvantages.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on equal footing" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating the manner in which an action is performed or a state exists. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usability. For example, "They competed on equal footing."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

25%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on equal footing" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe situations characterized by fairness, equality, and a level playing field. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in diverse contexts, ranging from news and media to academic and scientific writing. When writing, use "on equal footing" to emphasize that no party has an unfair advantage. Be mindful of the context to avoid downplaying existing inequalities. Alternatives include "on equal terms" and "on the same level", which may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on equal terms

Emphasizes the fairness and balance in the relationship or situation.

on a level playing field

This alternative highlights the fairness and impartiality of the situation.

on the same level

This directly indicates an equivalent position or rank.

on par with

This suggests an equivalent status or quality.

in the same league

This is often used in competitive contexts to denote similar ability or standing.

on an equal plane

Highlights the uniformity and lack of hierarchical difference.

equally

A single-word adverb that signifies the same degree or extent.

with parity

Parity implies equality, especially in amount, status, or character.

on a balanced scale

This emphasizes that the weighing up of importance is similar between entities.

uniformly

Another single-word adverb that conveys the idea of sameness and consistency.

FAQs

How can I use "on equal footing" in a sentence?

You can use "on equal footing" to describe situations where individuals or groups have the same rights, opportunities, or status. For example, "The new law ensures that all citizens compete "on equal terms"."

What can I say instead of "on equal footing"?

You can use alternatives like "on par with", "on the same level", or "on equal terms" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "on equal footing" or "on equal ground"?

Both "on equal footing" and "on equal ground" can be used, but "on equal footing" is more common when referring to status or opportunities, while "on equal ground" might be used more literally or metaphorically to describe a situation where the playing field is level.

What's the difference between "on equal footing" and "on equal basis"?

"On equal footing" emphasizes a state of equality in terms of status or advantage, whereas "on equal basis" often refers to the specific actions or considerations being applied equally to all parties. For example, "They were treated on equal basis during the selection process, putting them "on equal footing" for the final decision."