equal

Universal Words adjective, noun, verb adjective 1 ~ (to sb/sth) the same in size, quantity, value, etc. as sth else: There is an equal number of boys and girls in the class. * One unit of alcohol is equal to half a pint of beer. * two pieces of wood equal in length / of equal length * An area of forest equal to the size of Wales has been destroyed. HELPNOTE You can use exactly, precisely, approximately, etc. with equal in this meaning. 2 having the same rights or being treated the same as other people, without differences such as race, religion or sex being considered: equal rights / pay * The company has an equal opportunities policy (= gives the same chances of employment to everyone). * the desire for a more equal society (= in which everyone has the same rights and chances) HELPNOTE You can use more with equal in this meaning. 3 ~ to sth (formal) having the necessary strength, courage and ability to deal with sth successfully: I hope that he proves equal to the challenge. seealsoEQUALLY IDIOMS on equal terms (with sb) having the same advantages and disadvantages as sb else: Can our industry compete on equal terms with its overseas rivals? moreatTHING noun a person or thing of the same quality or with the same status, rights, etc. as another: She treats the people who work for her as her equals. * Our cars are the equal of those produced anywhere in the world. IDIOMS be without equal