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 rectangle are equal. [equal: adjective]
Example
All employees should receive equal pay for equal work. [equal: adjective]
Example
5 + 3 is equal to 8. [equal: preposition]
even
Example
The surface of the lake was even and calm. [even: adjective]
Example
We need to distribute the workload evenly among team members. [even: adverb]
Example
6 is an even number. [even: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Equal is more commonly used than even in everyday language, especially in the context of comparisons and fairness. Even is less common but still widely used in contexts such as balance and consistency.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between equal and even?
Both equal and even are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.