on the same footing

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the same footing" is a valid phrase that can be used in written English.
It is used to refer to two or more things being considered on an equal level. For example: In the workplace, men and women should be treated on the same footing - they should both have access to the same opportunities and resources.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Maybe a tension becomes possible because of this, everybody knowing something different, no one on the same footing?

The New Yorker

Here we describe the collective activity in such mixed populations, treating place and non-place cells on the same footing.

Princeton University

The only ethical solution is to put everyone on the same footing, to give them all the tools they need".

The New York Times - Arts

At the same time, he said, technological advances put multinational corporations on the same footing as small, socially networked businesses.

The Guardian

Thus these journals place the author's second wedding and the release of the Pentagon Papers on the same footing.

The New York Times - Books

It is totally over the top to place NHS changes on the same footing as preparations for the Iraq war.

The Guardian

It needs all countries on the same footing for taking action before we ramp up that action.

The Guardian

But in 2014 the new Common Agricultural Policy should put all member states on the same footing.

The Guardian

Having a way to handle energy on the same footing may help to draw these diverse strands together.

MIT Technology Review

From January 2017, though, the Dutch government will put speed pedelecs on the same footing as mopeds.

The Guardian

Legislators should reject the special protection for mortgage lenders by putting mortgages on the same footing as other secured debt.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing different aspects, ensure that using "on the same footing" is justified by providing sufficient context or evidence to support the claim of equality. This prevents the phrase from appearing arbitrary or unsubstantiated.

Common error

Don't assume that simply stating something is "on the same footing" automatically makes it so. Always verify that there are no underlying biases or disparities that might undermine the intended equality. A false equivalence weakens your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the same footing" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or noun to indicate equality or equivalence in treatment, status, or opportunity. Ludwig examples confirm its use in various sentence structures to emphasize fairness and comparability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the same footing" is a prepositional phrase indicating equality and fairness, commonly used across various contexts like news, academia, and science. Ludwig AI affirms its correct grammatical usage and widespread applicability. Related phrases include "on equal terms" and "on a level playing field". Best practices involve ensuring that the stated equality is justified and supported, while common errors involve assuming equality without validation. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for diverse writing styles, aiming to emphasize fairness and comparability in discussions or regulations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on equal terms

This alternative emphasizes fairness and equal opportunity in a particular situation.

on an equal basis

Similar to "on equal terms", but places greater emphasis on the foundational aspects of equality.

on a level playing field

This phrase highlights the idea of fair competition where everyone has the same chances.

given equal consideration

This emphasizes the act of evaluating or thinking about different elements with the same level of importance.

on par with

This alternative suggests a similar level of achievement or quality.

equally

A shorter alternative focusing on the equivalent treatment or status.

treated the same

A more direct alternative focusing on the action of treating things or people alike.

uniformly

This emphasizes the consistency and sameness of treatment or condition.

on the same plane

Implies that the involved entities share a common level or platform.

under the same conditions

Focuses on the environmental or situational factors being identical for all parties involved.

FAQs

How can I use "on the same footing" in a sentence?

You can use "on the same footing" to show equality or equivalence. For instance, "The new regulations put small businesses "on the same footing" as large corporations".

What are some alternatives to "on the same footing"?

Alternatives include "on equal terms", "on a level playing field", or "on par with". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "on equal footing" instead of "on the same footing"?

"On equal footing" is a valid and similar expression, although ""on the same footing"" is more common. Both imply equality, but the latter is often used when directly comparing two or more things.

What's the difference between "on the same page" and "on the same footing"?

"On the same page" means that people share the same understanding or goals. "On the same footing" indicates that entities are treated equally or have the same status. They address different aspects of alignment and equivalence.