this is tantamount to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is tantamount to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that one thing is equivalent to or has the same effect as another. Example: "His refusal to cooperate is tantamount to admitting guilt in the matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is tantamount to blackmail.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is tantamount to social cleansing.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is tantamount to a bi-lateral wholesale partnership.

Optical Fiber Technology

"This is tantamount to extortion," Mr. Sorial said.

The New York Times

This is tantamount to rewarding Israel for bad behavior.

The New York Times

But this is tantamount to endorsing the war.

The Guardian

My friends say that this is tantamount to suicide.

The New York Times - Magazine

This is tantamount to experimenting on a human being".

The Guardian

This is tantamount to extending the present statute to cover those in petitioner's position.

Cornell University

This is tantamount to normalizing the curvature by multiplying it by the Taylor scale of turbulence.

Combustion and Flame

This is tantamount to complete control of all the global instability modes.

European Journal of Mechanics - B-Fluids

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is tantamount to" when you want to emphasize that something is essentially the same as something else, often with significant implications. For example, "Ignoring the warning signs is tantamount to inviting disaster."

Common error

While grammatically correct, "this is tantamount to" can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation or informal writing. Consider using simpler alternatives like "this is like" or "this is the same as" in less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is tantamount to" serves as a predicate adjective construction, equating one subject with another in terms of significance or effect. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is tantamount to" functions to equate one thing to another, implying a near-perfect equivalence, often to highlight serious implications. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. While versatile, its formality suggests it's best suited for professional, academic, or journalistic contexts. Consider simpler alternatives for casual conversation. With a very common frequency, remember to use "this is tantamount to" when you want to draw a powerful parallel and emphasize the significance of the comparison. Understanding its connotations ensures your writing remains both accurate and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is equal to

Indicates a direct equivalence, often used in mathematical or precise contexts.

this is equivalent to

Expresses a near-identical meaning or effect, suitable for general usage.

this is the same as

Emphasizes the identical nature of two things.

this amounts to

Highlights the cumulative effect or result of something.

this is analogous to

Suggests a similarity or comparison, often used to explain a concept.

this is akin to

Implies a resemblance or likeness, often used in a literary or descriptive context.

this is comparable to

Suggests that two things can be compared because they share significant similarities.

this is virtually

Indicates something is almost entirely equivalent.

this is in effect

Indicates the practical consequence or outcome of something.

this mirrors

Emphasizes a close similarity between two elements.

FAQs

What does "this is tantamount to" mean?

The phrase "this is tantamount to" means that something is virtually the same as, or equivalent to, something else. It suggests that the two things being compared have essentially the same effect or consequence.

How can I use "this is tantamount to" in a sentence?

You can use "this is tantamount to" to equate a situation, action, or statement to another that carries a similar weight or implication. For example: "His silence on the matter is tantamount to an admission of guilt."

What are some alternatives to "this is tantamount to"?

Some alternatives to "this is tantamount to" include "this is equivalent to", "this amounts to", "this is the same as", or "this is analogous to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "this is tantamount to" or "this is the same as"?

While both phrases express similarity, "this is tantamount to" carries a stronger, more formal connotation. It suggests a near-perfect equivalence with significant consequences. "This is the same as" is more straightforward and less emphatic. Choose the phrase that best suits the tone and context of your writing.