equivalence

noun

equiv·​a·​lence i-ˈkwi-və-lən(t)s 

-ˈkwiv-lən(t)s

1

a

: the state or property of being equivalent

b

: the relation holding between two statements if they are either both true or both false so that to affirm one and to deny the other would result in a contradiction

2

: a presentation of terms as equivalent

3

: equality in metrical value of a regular foot and one in which there are substitutions

Synonyms

• coequality
• coordinateness
• equality
• equivalency
• par
• parity
• sameness

Examples of equivalence in a Sentence

the equivalence of the two propositions

moviegoers who mistakenly believe that there is an equivalence between the personality of an actor and that of his character

Recent Examples on the Web

That decision supports the idea that Khan is seeking to create an equivalence between Israel and Hamas and that he’s being driven by political considerations. —The Editors, National Review, 21 May 2024

This approach has upset many for seeming to establish false equivalences. —Paul Elie, The New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1541, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing equivalence

• equivalence class
• equivalence relation

Kids Definition

equivalence

noun

equiv·​a·​lence i-ˈkwiv(-ə)-lən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being equivalent

Medical Definition

equivalence

noun

equiv·​a·​lence i-ˈkwiv(-ə)-lən(t)s 

: the state or property of being equivalent