äquivalent
/ˌɛkvivaˈlɛnt/
The English phrase "equivalent" can be translated into German using äquivalent. Wiktionary also lists gleichwertig and entsprechend.
Meaning: similar or identical in value (adj)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA |
|---|---|
| äquivalent | /ˌɛkvivaˈlɛnt/ |
| gleichwertig | /ˈɡlaɪ̯çˌveːɐ̯tɪç/ /-ˌveːɐ̯tɪk/ |
| entsprechend |
These terms are used to describe things that are similar or identical in value.
Which one should you use?
Use gleichwertig when emphasizing that two things have the same value or worth, such as in a legal or economic context. Use entsprechend to mean 'corresponding to' or 'appropriate to' a certain context, rather than just having equal value. Use äquivalent primarily in technical, mathematical or highly formal contexts to denote a direct functional or logical equivalence.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun form Äquivalent is neuter and takes the article das. The noun Entsprechung is feminine and is often used to describe a conceptual or linguistic equivalent.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌɛkvivaˈlɛnt/
Did you know?
- While gleichwertig means 'equivalent' in value, the word gleich on its own can mean 'equal' or 'the same' but also 'immediately' or 'soon'.
- The Latin root of äquivalent comes from 'aequus' meaning 'equal' and 'valere' meaning 'to be strong', literally suggesting things that have 'equal power'.
- The word entsprechend can function as an adverb meaning 'accordingly', allowing it to act as both an adjective and a connective term in a sentence.
Examples in context
- Was ist das türkische Äquivalent zur Meditation?What is the Turkish equivalent to meditation?This sentence is useful for asking about a cultural equivalent for a concept like meditation using äquivalent.Tatoeba #2077571 by Tamy, translation #5354628 by joshodude_1308
- Geben Sie mir den entsprechenden Betrag in Dollar!Give me the equivalent in dollars.This sentence shows how to use entsprechend to request a corresponding amount of money.Tatoeba #2322356 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2265981 by _undertoad
- Eine Weitergabe ist nur unter derselben oder einer äquivalenten Lizenz gestattet.Sharing is permitted only under the same or an equivalent license.This sentence demonstrates the use of äquivalent to describe a license of equal standing.Tatoeba #11185132 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #11185121 by shekitten
- Die Buchstaben 'A' und 'B' sind äquivalent.The letters 'A' and 'B' are equivalent.
- Für mich ist das gleich.For me, it's the same/equivalent.
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Sarah are discussing a job offer from another country.
- LukasIst das Gehalt in Euro äquivalent?Is the salary equivalent in euros?
- SarahJa, es ist fast genau derselbe Betrag.Yes, it is almost exactly the same amount.
- LukasDas klingt gut für mich.That sounds good to me.
- SarahIch denke auch, dass es fair ist.I also think it is fair.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “equivalent” translations and entries äquivalent, gleichwertig, entsprechend, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries gleichwertig, äquivalent, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
