to be equivalent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be equivalent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the equality or similarity of two or more things in terms of value, meaning, or function. Example: "In mathematics, two expressions can be simplified to be equivalent, meaning they yield the same result."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Such hydrogens are said to be equivalent.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Fluids were believed to be equivalent to performance-enhancing drugs.

The New York Times - Health

The workload is designed to be equivalent to a class.

Columbia University

It's going to be equivalent of a LEED silver rating.

The New York Times

All the constraints are shown to be equivalent to LMIs.

Automatica

The transformations wrought by the digital revolution look likely to be equivalent in magnitude.

The Guardian - Opinion

"What women need is to be able to be equivalent, rather than equal.

The Guardian

The cartridges, which are supposed to be equivalent to 12 fags, run out at alarming speed.

The Guardian

Salaries tend to be equivalent to traditional communications roles, in the region of £20-30K.

The Guardian

I say, do I want my book in anyone's mind to be equivalent to a porno?

The New York Times - Tech

The 20% target is now so weak as to be equivalent to business as usual.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be equivalent", ensure that the context clearly defines the criteria for equivalence. Specify the aspect in which the items or concepts are considered equivalent to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "to be equivalent" when only a partial or approximate similarity exists. Using weaker terms like "similar" or "comparable" is more appropriate when the subjects aren't perfectly interchangeable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be equivalent" primarily functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun to describe its state of being equal or virtually equal to something else. Ludwig confirms its correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

28%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be equivalent" is a versatile phrase used to express a state of equality or near-equality between two or more entities. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Its applicability spans across diverse fields, including science, news, and academia. When employing the phrase, it's essential to ensure the context clarifies the specific criteria for equivalence to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "to be equal" or "to be the same as" may be more appropriate depending on the nuances you wish to convey. By understanding these subtleties, you can use "to be equivalent" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be identical to

This alternative signifies complete agreement or correspondence in every detail.

to be equal

This alternative focuses on the idea of exact sameness in value or measure, slightly emphasizing numerical or quantitative aspects.

to be indistinguishable from

This highlights the inability to perceive any difference between two things, suggesting a high degree of similarity.

to be the same as

This alternative emphasizes identity and lack of difference between two things, highlighting their indistinguishability.

to be interchangeable

This highlights the ability to substitute one thing for another without altering the outcome or meaning.

to be comparable

This option suggests a degree of similarity that allows for comparison, though not necessarily complete equivalence.

to be on par with

This phrase indicates a level of equality in status or quality, often used in competitive contexts.

to be analogous to

This implies a similarity based on a specific point of comparison, suggesting a parallel or likeness in particular aspects.

to be commensurate with

This suggests a proportional relationship or correspondence in measure or degree.

to be uniform with

This emphasizes consistency and lack of variation, suggesting a standardized similarity.

FAQs

What does "to be equivalent" mean?

The phrase "to be equivalent" means that two or more things are equal or virtually equal in value, function, or meaning. It indicates a substantial degree of sameness.

How can I use "to be equivalent" in a sentence?

You can use "to be equivalent" to show that two things have the same effect or value. For example: "For the purposes of this study, these two methods are assumed "to be equivalent"."

What are some alternatives to "to be equivalent"?

Some alternatives to "to be equivalent" include "to be equal", "to be the same as", or "to be comparable", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "to be equivalent" rather than "to be similar"?

"To be equivalent" implies a stronger degree of sameness than "to be similar". Use "to be equivalent" when the items are practically interchangeable. If there are noticeable differences, "to be similar" is more appropriate.