What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
equals
Example
In this company, men and women are treated as equals. [equals: noun]
Example
2 + 2 equals 4. [equals: verb]
Example
The value of the dollar equals the value of the euro. [equals: verb]
equivalent
Example
A kilometer is equivalent to 0.62 miles. [equivalent: adjective]
Example
This medicine is the equivalent of the one you took before. [equivalent: noun]
Example
Studying for an hour is equivalent to exercising for 30 minutes. [equivalent: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Equals is more commonly used than equivalent in everyday language, especially in mathematical contexts. Equivalent is more commonly used in technical or academic writing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between equals and equivalent?
Both equals and equivalent can be used in formal and informal contexts, but equivalent is more commonly used in technical or academic writing, making it slightly more formal than equals.
