What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
equal
Example
The two sides of the equation are equal. [equal: adjective]
Example
All citizens should be treated as equals. [equal: noun]
Example
The two triangles are equal in size. [equal: adjective]
equivalent
Example
One dollar is equivalent to 100 cents. [equivalent: adjective]
Example
This medicine is an equivalent to the one you usually take. [equivalent: noun]
Example
Skipping breakfast is equivalent to skipping an important meal. [equivalent: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Equal is more commonly used than equivalent in everyday language, especially in mathematical or numerical contexts. Equivalent is less common but still widely used in academic or technical writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between equal and equivalent?
Equivalent is generally considered more formal than equal, especially when used as a preposition or a noun.
