equivalence

noun

equiv·​a·​lence i-ˈkwi-və-lən(t)s How to pronounce equivalence (audio)
-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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Richter seems to reject the notion of typology altogether, pushing instead the idea of visual equivalence to its limits, exposing how images (regardless of weight or meaning) can be trivialized through repetition. Nargess Banks, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025 Trump himself has suggested moral equivalence between the two sides, claiming Ukraine was at fault for provoking the war, that President Zelensky was illegitimate and that the U.S. should recognize Russia’s annexations of Ukrainian territory. Eric Green, Time, 30 Apr. 2025 These lawmakers argue the ICC holds no jurisdiction over Israel and that the warrants create a false equivalence with Hamas. Al Weaver, The Hill, 29 Jan. 2025 Yet, with a synopsis drawing equivalence with hit James Norton-starring BBC drama McMafia, which was itself based on a non-fiction book, this one could be ripe for an early option. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for equivalence

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1541, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of equivalence was circa 1541

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Cite this Entry

“Equivalence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/equivalence. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

equivalence

noun
equiv·​a·​lence i-ˈkwiv(-ə)-lən(t)s How to pronounce equivalence (audio)
: the quality or state of being equivalent

Medical Definition

equivalence

noun
equiv·​a·​lence i-ˈkwiv(-ə)-lən(t)s How to pronounce equivalence (audio)
: the state or property of being equivalent

More from Merriam-Webster on equivalence

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