Equivalent Meaning
Equivalent Definition & Usage
Equal in value, amount, meaning, or effect.
Examples
- "The two options are equivalent in cost, so choose the one that suits you best."
- "Her skills are equivalent to those of the most experienced professionals in the field."
- "The teacher's explanation and the textbook are equivalent, so you can rely on either."
- "The new smartphone is equivalent to the previous model but has improved features."
- "The two brands offer equivalent products at different price points."
A person or thing that is equal to another in value, meaning, or function.
Examples
- "In this equation, x is the equivalent of 5 in the original equation."
- "The two substances have equivalent chemical properties."
- "She found the equivalent in her research that matched her hypothesis perfectly."
- "An equivalent of the French word 'amour' in English is 'love'."
- "They were searching for an equivalent to the missing element in the formula."
Cultural Context
The word 'equivalent' comes from the Latin word 'aequivalens', meaning 'equal in force, worth, or value'. It is commonly used across many disciplines, such as mathematics, chemistry, economics, and everyday conversation. In daily life, people often use it to describe products, services, or even abstract concepts like skills or qualities that are equal in value or importance.
The Search for an Equivalent
Story
The Search for an Equivalent
Maria stood at the crossroads of her career, unsure whether to accept the new job offer or stay in her current role. Both positions offered the same salary, but the work environment was drastically different. She needed something to help her decide. She picked up her phone and called her mentor, Dr. Thompson. 'Well, Maria,' Dr. Thompson began, 'the two roles are equivalent in pay and status, but what really matters is the work culture. It's not just the number on your paycheck; it’s the satisfaction you derive from the work you do.' Maria thought about it for a moment. Yes, the salary was equivalent, but her current job left her feeling drained, while the new opportunity promised more creative freedom. The conversation made Maria realize that, in this case, 'equivalent' didn’t only refer to the figures on the pay slip. It was about finding a role that balanced her aspirations and lifestyle. Dr. Thompson’s advice struck a chord, and Maria made her decision. She took the new job. A few weeks later, Maria was smiling. The work environment was more aligned with her goals. Her mentor had been right – while the pay was equivalent, the personal satisfaction was beyond measure. The two options were equal in one way but different in another. Sometimes, 'equivalence' is about more than numbers; it's about finding what truly fits your needs, even if the external details are the same.
Related Words
