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A1 noun #43 most common 15 min read

equality

Top 43

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips equality in 30 Seconds

Explanation equality in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'equality' is a word you use to talk about things being the same or fair. It is like when you share a cake with a friend and you both get the same size piece. That is equality. You might hear it in school when teachers say everyone should have the same chance to play or learn. It is a very important word for being kind and fair to others. You can use it in simple sentences like 'Equality is good' or 'We want equality.' It helps you explain that you think everyone should be treated in the same way, no matter who they are. Even though it is a big word, the idea is simple: being fair to everyone. You will see it in books about friends and families. It is one of the first words you learn when you talk about how people should live together. Remember, it means 'the same' in a fair way.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'equality' to talk about more specific things like 'gender equality' or 'equality in school.' You understand that it is a noun and that it describes a situation where people have the same rights. For example, you can say, 'Men and women should have equality.' You are also learning that it is an abstract word, which means you cannot touch it, but you can see it in how people act. You might use it when talking about your hobbies or your job, like saying 'There is equality in my football team.' This means everyone gets to play and everyone is treated the same by the coach. It is a useful word for expressing your opinions about what is fair. You will also notice it in short news stories or simple articles about famous people who fought for fairness. It is a key word for building your vocabulary about society and rights.

At the B1 level, you are becoming more comfortable using 'equality' in different contexts, such as 'social equality' or 'economic equality.' You can explain the meaning of the word using other words like 'fairness' or 'justice.' You are also starting to use it with more complex verbs like 'achieve,' 'promote,' or 'ensure.' For example, 'The government is trying to achieve equality for all citizens.' You understand that equality is a goal that many people work toward. You can also use it in the negative form, 'inequality,' to talk about problems in the world. You might write a short essay about why equality is important in education. You are beginning to see how equality is used in more formal settings, like in a workplace or a legal document. You can also distinguish between 'equality of opportunity' and 'equality of outcome,' which are common phrases in English-speaking cultures. This shows you are moving beyond the basic meaning of the word.

At the B2 level, you can use 'equality' with precision in academic and professional discussions. You understand the nuances of the word and how it differs from related terms like 'equity' or 'parity.' You can participate in debates about complex issues like 'marriage equality' or 'racial equality' and provide clear arguments. You are comfortable using 'equality' in various grammatical structures, including passive voice and complex noun phrases. For example, 'The promotion of gender equality is a key objective of this international organization.' You can also identify the word in more sophisticated texts, such as political speeches or legal analyses. You understand the historical context of the word and how its meaning has evolved over time. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use synonyms and antonyms to avoid repetition and to add depth to your communication. You can also use the word to discuss abstract philosophical concepts related to justice and human rights.

At the C1 level, you have a deep and sophisticated understanding of 'equality.' You can use it to discuss intricate legal frameworks, such as the 'Equal Protection Clause,' or philosophical theories like 'egalitarianism.' You are aware of the subtle connotations the word carries in different cultural and political contexts. You can write long, detailed reports or essays that analyze the impact of equality on society. You are also able to use the word in a variety of registers, from highly formal legal language to more informal but still nuanced social commentary. You can critically evaluate different definitions of equality and explain why one might be more appropriate than another in a given situation. Your use of the word is natural and idiomatic, and you can easily navigate the complexities of phrases like 'formal equality' versus 'substantive equality.' You are also sensitive to the way the word is used in sensitive or controversial discussions, showing a high level of cultural competence.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'equality' is complete. You can use the word with the same level of nuance and precision as a highly educated native speaker. You are familiar with the most obscure uses of the word, including its applications in advanced mathematics, science, and philosophy. You can engage in high-level academic discourse about the intersectionality of equality and how it relates to other complex concepts like power, privilege, and systemic oppression. You can write persuasive and sophisticated arguments that challenge traditional notions of equality and propose new ways of thinking about fairness. Your understanding of the word is informed by a broad knowledge of history, law, and social science. You can use 'equality' in creative and rhetorical ways to inspire, persuade, or provoke thought. You are also able to identify and analyze the use of the word in literature and high-level journalism, appreciating the subtle ways it is used to convey meaning and emotion.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

equality in 30 Seconds

Equality is the state of being equal, especially in terms of rights, status, and opportunities for all people in a society.
It is a fundamental human right and a core value in many cultures, often associated with fairness and justice for everyone.
The word is commonly used in phrases like 'gender equality,' 'racial equality,' and 'equality of opportunity' to describe social goals.
In grammar, it is an uncountable noun that can be modified by adjectives to specify the type of fairness being discussed.

The concept of equality is a cornerstone of modern civilization, representing the fundamental belief that every human being possesses the same intrinsic value and should be granted the same rights and opportunities. At its simplest level, equality means that no person is better or worse than another based on their identity, background, or physical characteristics. In everyday conversation, people use the word equality to discuss fairness in schools, workplaces, and the legal system. For instance, when we talk about gender equality, we are advocating for a world where men and women receive the same pay for the same work and have equal access to leadership roles. The word is deeply rooted in social justice movements, where it serves as a rallying cry for those seeking to dismantle systemic barriers that prevent certain groups from succeeding. Beyond the social context, equality also has a mathematical and logical application, referring to the state of two quantities being exactly the same. However, in a linguistic and social sense, it is most frequently associated with the human experience of fairness and justice.

Social Context: In social settings, equality refers to the removal of discrimination so that everyone can participate fully in society. This includes access to education, healthcare, and the right to vote.

The constitution was written to ensure that every citizen enjoys equality before the law, regardless of their wealth or status.

When you hear the word equality in the news, it is often paired with specific areas of life. You might hear about economic equality, which focuses on the distribution of wealth, or racial equality, which addresses the historical and ongoing struggles for justice among different ethnic groups. It is important to note that equality is not just about treating everyone exactly the same in every situation; rather, it is about ensuring that the starting line is the same for everyone. This is where the distinction between equality and equity often arises, though in general usage, equality remains the primary term for the ideal of a fair society. People use this word when they feel a sense of injustice or when they want to celebrate progress in human rights. It is a word of hope, a word of protest, and a word of legal precision all at once.

Legal Context: Legally, equality implies that the law must be applied uniformly to all individuals without bias or favoritism toward specific groups.

Marriage equality has become a major legal milestone in many countries over the last decade.

Furthermore, equality is a concept that evolves. What was considered equality a hundred years ago—such as the right for only certain men to vote—is now viewed as a form of inequality. Today, the scope of equality has expanded to include digital equality, ensuring everyone has access to the internet, and environmental equality, ensuring no community is disproportionately affected by pollution. It is a dynamic term that reflects the changing values of our global community. By using the word equality, you are participating in a long-standing dialogue about what it means to be human and how we should coexist in a shared world.

Mathematical Context: In mathematics, equality is the relationship between two expressions that have the same value, represented by the equals sign (=).

The teacher explained that the equality of the two sides of the equation must be maintained during the calculation.

We are working toward achieving total equality in the workplace by 2030.

The struggle for racial equality has a long and complex history in the United States.

Using the word 'equality' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as an abstract noun. Because it represents a concept rather than a physical object, it is typically used without an article like 'a' or 'an,' though 'the' is common when referring to a specific type of equality. For example, you would say 'Equality is important,' but 'The equality of the two groups was questioned.' When constructing sentences, equality often acts as the object of verbs that describe actions taken toward achieving a goal. Common verbs include 'promote,' 'achieve,' 'ensure,' 'demand,' and 'fight for.' For instance, 'The organization works to promote equality in education.' This structure highlights equality as a desired state or a target for social change. It can also serve as the subject of a sentence, as in 'Equality remains an elusive goal for many developing nations,' where it takes on a more active role in the narrative.

Common Verb Pairings: Verbs like 'strive for,' 'guarantee,' and 'uphold' are frequently used with equality to express commitment and legal obligation.

Governments must strive for equality by creating laws that protect all citizens.

Adjectives play a crucial role in specifying what kind of equality is being discussed. You will often see 'equality' modified by words like 'social,' 'economic,' 'political,' 'gender,' or 'racial.' These modifiers help narrow down the broad concept into manageable topics. For example, 'Economic equality is often measured by income distribution.' In this case, the adjective 'economic' tells the reader exactly which area of equality is under consideration. Another important grammatical pattern involves the preposition 'between.' We often talk about 'equality between' two groups, such as 'equality between men and women' or 'equality between different social classes.' This usage emphasizes the relationship and the balance that should exist between these groups. Conversely, the preposition 'of' is used to describe equality in terms of a specific attribute, such as 'equality of opportunity' or 'equality of outcome.' These phrases are very common in political science and sociology.

Prepositional Phrases: Phrases like 'in the interest of equality' or 'on the grounds of equality' are used to explain the reasoning behind a decision or policy.

The policy was changed in the interest of equality for all employees.

In more formal or academic writing, equality might be used in complex structures involving passive voice or nominalization. For example, 'The promotion of equality is seen as a primary duty of the state.' Here, 'equality' is part of a larger noun phrase that functions as the subject. When writing about equality, it is also helpful to use contrasting terms like 'inequality' or 'disparity' to highlight the problems being solved. For instance, 'To achieve equality, we must first address the existing inequalities in our healthcare system.' This contrast provides clarity and depth to your arguments. Whether you are writing a simple sentence or a complex essay, 'equality' is a versatile word that can be adapted to many different grammatical environments while maintaining its core meaning of fairness and balance.

Adjective Modifiers: Using adjectives like 'absolute,' 'perfect,' or 'relative' can help define the degree of equality being discussed.

While absolute equality may be impossible, we can still strive for a fairer society.

There is a clear equality of rights between all members of the committee.

The debate focused on the equality of opportunity versus the equality of outcome.

You will encounter the word 'equality' in a wide variety of real-world settings, ranging from high-level political debates to casual conversations about fairness. One of the most common places to hear it is in the news, particularly during discussions about legislation or social movements. News anchors and reporters frequently use terms like 'marriage equality' when reporting on LGBTQ+ rights or 'pay equality' when discussing the gender wage gap. In these contexts, the word carries a heavy weight of social significance and legal consequence. It is also a staple of political speeches. Politicians across the spectrum use 'equality' to appeal to the values of their constituents, though they may define it in different ways. For a voter, hearing a candidate talk about 'equality of opportunity' might signal a focus on education and job creation, while 'economic equality' might suggest a focus on tax reform and social safety nets.

In the Media: The media uses 'equality' as a shorthand for complex social issues, making it a key term for anyone following current events.

The news report highlighted the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the tech industry.

In educational settings, 'equality' is a fundamental concept taught from a young age. Teachers use it to explain how students should treat one another on the playground and in the classroom. In university-level courses, particularly in sociology, philosophy, and law, 'equality' is analyzed as a theoretical construct. Students might read about the 'Equal Protection Clause' of the U.S. Constitution or discuss the philosophical works of John Rawls regarding justice and equality. In these academic environments, the word is used with great precision and is often the subject of intense debate. You might also hear 'equality' in the workplace, specifically during 'Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion' (DEI) training sessions. Human resources professionals use the word to describe the company's commitment to providing a fair environment for all employees, regardless of their background.

In Education: Schools use the concept of equality to teach students about civic duty and respect for others.

The professor's lecture on social equality sparked a long discussion among the students.

Beyond these formal settings, 'equality' appears in popular culture—in songs, movies, and literature. Musicians often write lyrics about the need for equality to inspire their listeners and advocate for change. In films, the theme of equality is frequently explored through stories of individuals overcoming prejudice. Even in sports, you will hear about 'equality' in terms of equal funding for men's and women's teams or the fair treatment of athletes from different countries. Whether you are watching a documentary, reading a novel, or listening to a podcast, 'equality' is a word that connects various aspects of the human experience. It is a universal term that resonates across cultures and languages, making it one of the most important words to understand in the modern world.

In Sports: Sports organizations often promote equality to ensure that athletes of all genders and backgrounds have the same opportunities to compete.

The campaign for equality in sports has led to better funding for women's soccer.

The movie tells the story of a young woman fighting for racial equality in the 1960s.

During the interview, the CEO emphasized the importance of equality in the company's hiring process.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make when using 'equality' is confusing it with 'equity.' While they are related and often used in the same conversations, they have distinct meanings. Equality means treating everyone the same, giving everyone the same resources or opportunities. Equity, on the other hand, means giving everyone what they need to be successful, which might mean giving more support to those who start with less. For example, giving every student the same textbook is equality; giving a student who is visually impaired a braille textbook is equity. Using 'equality' when you actually mean 'equity' can lead to misunderstandings in discussions about social justice and policy. Another common error is using 'equality' as a countable noun. You should avoid saying 'an equality' or 'equalities' unless you are specifically referring to mathematical equations. In most contexts, it is an abstract, uncountable concept.

Equality vs. Equity: Equality is about sameness; equity is about fairness and providing specific support based on need.

Mistake: We need to provide equalities for all students. (Correct: We need to provide equality for all students.)

Learners also sometimes confuse 'equality' with 'equal.' 'Equal' is an adjective, while 'equality' is a noun. You might say 'The two groups are equal,' but you would say 'There is equality between the two groups.' Using the noun form where an adjective is needed, or vice versa, is a common grammatical slip. For instance, saying 'They have an equality right' is incorrect; the correct phrasing would be 'They have an equal right' or 'They have a right to equality.' Additionally, the preposition used with equality can be tricky. While 'equality of' and 'equality between' are standard, using 'equality for' is also common when referring to a specific group, such as 'equality for women.' However, using 'equality to' is usually incorrect unless it's part of a different structure, like 'The equality to which we aspire.'

Noun vs. Adjective: Be careful not to use the noun 'equality' as an adjective. Use 'equal' instead.

Mistake: They are equality in the eyes of the law. (Correct: They are equal in the eyes of the law.)

Finally, a subtle mistake involves the context of 'sameness.' Sometimes people use 'equality' to mean that everyone should be exactly the same in their personality or choices. However, in a social and political sense, equality refers to rights and opportunities, not to personal characteristics. Insisting that equality means everyone must act or think the same way is a misinterpretation of the term. It is about the freedom to be different while having the same standing in society. When writing or speaking about equality, ensure that your context clearly points toward fairness and rights rather than forced uniformity. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can use the word 'equality' with greater accuracy and impact in your communication.

Uniformity vs. Equality: Equality does not mean everyone is the same; it means everyone has the same rights to be themselves.

True equality respects diversity and does not demand that everyone be the same.

The law ensures equality of opportunity, but it cannot guarantee equality of outcome.

The confusion between equality and equity often leads to heated debates in public policy.

While 'equality' is a powerful word, there are several synonyms and related terms that can add nuance to your writing and speaking. 'Fairness' is perhaps the most common alternative, often used in more informal or general contexts. While equality focuses on the state of being equal, fairness focuses on the quality of being just and unbiased. Another close synonym is 'parity,' which is frequently used in technical or economic contexts, such as 'purchasing power parity' or 'gender parity' in representation. Parity implies a state of being equal in status or amount. 'Impartiality' is another related term, though it specifically refers to the lack of bias in a decision-making process. A judge, for example, is expected to show impartiality, which contributes to the overall equality of the legal system.

Equality vs. Fairness: Equality is the objective state of being the same; fairness is the subjective feeling that a situation is right and just.

The teacher's sense of fairness ensured that equality was maintained in the classroom.

In more formal or academic settings, you might encounter 'egalitarianism,' which is the philosophical belief in the equality of all people. Using this term shows a deeper understanding of the ideological roots of equality. 'Equivalence' is another word often confused with equality, but it is more common in scientific or mathematical contexts to describe things that have the same value, function, or meaning without being identical. For example, 'The two qualifications are of equal value' uses the adjective, while 'There is an equivalence between the two qualifications' uses the noun. Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the most precise word for your specific situation. If you are talking about social rights, 'equality' is best. If you are talking about numbers or levels, 'parity' or 'equivalence' might be more appropriate.

Equality vs. Parity: Parity is often used for measurable things like pay or representation, while equality is a broader social ideal.

We are striving for gender parity in our board of directors to ensure equality of voice.

Finally, it is worth considering antonyms like 'inequality,' 'disparity,' and 'discrimination.' These words describe the absence of equality and are essential for discussing the challenges that need to be overcome. 'Inequality' is the direct opposite and is used broadly. 'Disparity' often refers to a noticeable and usually unfair difference, such as a 'wealth disparity.' 'Discrimination' refers to the unfair treatment of a person or group based on prejudice. By understanding both the synonyms and antonyms of 'equality,' you gain a more comprehensive toolkit for expressing complex ideas about justice and society. Whether you are advocating for change or analyzing data, choosing the right word will make your message clearer and more persuasive.

Equality vs. Equivalence: Equivalence suggests things are interchangeable or have the same effect, whereas equality suggests they are the same in status or rights.

The legal equality of the two documents was established by the court.

The report highlighted the growing income inequality in the region.

Achieving equality requires us to eliminate all forms of discrimination.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The mathematical equals sign (=) was invented in 1557 by Robert Recorde, who chose two parallel lines because 'no two things can be more equal'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɪˈkwɒl.ə.ti/

US /ɪˈkwɑː.lə.t̬i/

The stress is on the second syllable: e-QUAL-i-ty.

Rhymes With

quality frivolity jollity locality reality mentality fatality neutrality

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'e' at the beginning too strongly like 'EE-quality'.
Stressing the first syllable instead of the second.
Missing the 'l' sound in the middle.
Pronouncing the 'q' like a 'k' without the 'w' sound.
Shortening the word to 'equal' when the noun is needed.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word itself is easy to recognize, but the concepts it describes can be complex.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding of abstract noun usage and common collocations.

Speaking 2/5

Commonly used in discussions about fairness; pronunciation is straightforward.

Listening 2/5

Frequently heard in news and educational contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

equal same fair right people

Learn Next

equity justice discrimination opportunity status

Advanced

egalitarianism intersectionality parity impartiality equivalence

Grammar to Know

Abstract Nouns

Equality (no 'the' usually) is a goal.

Prepositional Phrases

Equality of rights is essential.

Gerunds as Subjects

Promoting equality is our mission.

Adjective Modification

We seek total equality.

Parallel Structure

We value liberty, justice, and equality.

Examples by Level

Equality is important for everyone.

L'égalité est importante pour tout le monde.

Uncountable noun used as a subject.

We want equality in our school.

Nous voulons l'égalité dans notre école.

Object of the verb 'want'.

Equality means being fair.

L'égalité signifie être juste.

Subject of the verb 'means'.

Is there equality in your family?

Y a-t-il de l'égalité dans votre famille?

Question form using 'is there'.

They fight for equality.

Ils se battent pour l'égalité.

Object of the preposition 'for'.

Equality is a good thing.

L'égalité est une bonne chose.

Simple subject-verb-complement structure.

She likes equality.

Elle aime l'égalité.

Third person singular verb 'likes'.

We need more equality.

Nous avons besoin de plus d'égalité.

Modified by 'more'.

Gender equality is a major goal.

L'égalité des sexes est un objectif majeur.

Compound noun phrase 'Gender equality'.

The teacher promotes equality in class.

L'enseignant encourage l'égalité en classe.

Present simple tense with a direct object.

They are working for racial equality.

Ils travaillent pour l'égalité raciale.

Present continuous tense.

Equality between friends is necessary.

L'égalité entre amis est nécessaire.

Prepositional phrase 'between friends'.

He spoke about the importance of equality.

Il a parlé de l'importance de l'égalité.

Past simple tense.

Does this law ensure equality?

Cette loi garantit-elle l'égalité ?

Interrogative form with 'does'.

We should strive for equality every day.

Nous devrions lutter pour l'égalité chaque jour.

Modal verb 'should' followed by 'strive for'.

Equality of rights is a human right.

L'égalité des droits est un droit de l'homme.

Noun phrase 'Equality of rights'.

The government must ensure economic equality.

Le gouvernement doit garantir l'égalité économique.

Modal verb 'must' with 'ensure'.

Achieving equality takes a lot of time.

Atteindre l'égalité prend beaucoup de temps.

Gerund 'Achieving' as the subject.

Social equality is a complex issue.

L'égalité sociale est une question complexe.

Adjective 'social' modifying 'equality'.

We need to address the lack of equality.

Nous devons remédier au manque d'égalité.

Noun phrase 'lack of equality'.

Equality of opportunity is vital for success.

L'égalité des chances est vitale pour le succès.

Common phrase 'equality of opportunity'.

The organization advocates for marriage equality.

L'organisation milite pour l'égalité du mariage.

Verb 'advocates for'.

They believe in the principle of equality.

Ils croient au principe d'égalité.

Noun phrase 'principle of equality'.

How can we promote equality in the workplace?

Comment pouvons-nous promouvoir l'égalité sur le lieu de travail ?

Wh- question with 'how' and 'can'.

The legislation was designed to promote equality.

La législation a été conçue pour promouvoir l'égalité.

Passive voice 'was designed'.

Equality of outcome is a controversial topic.

L'égalité des résultats est un sujet controversé.

Noun phrase 'Equality of outcome'.

The company is committed to gender equality.

L'entreprise est engagée en faveur de l'égalité des sexes.

Adjective phrase 'committed to'.

There is a significant disparity in equality.

Il existe une disparité significative en matière d'égalité.

Using 'disparity' to contrast with 'equality'.

Equality before the law is a fundamental principle.

L'égalité devant la loi est un principe fondamental.

Prepositional phrase 'before the law'.

The movement gained momentum in its quest for equality.

Le mouvement a pris de l'ampleur dans sa quête d'égalité.

Noun phrase 'quest for equality'.

We must analyze the barriers to equality.

Nous devons analyser les obstacles à l'égalité.

Noun phrase 'barriers to equality'.

The report examines the state of equality in the region.

Le rapport examine l'état de l'égalité dans la région.

Verb 'examines' with a direct object.

The court upheld the principle of constitutional equality.

Le tribunal a maintenu le principe de l'égalité constitutionnelle.

Formal verb 'uphold'.

Substantive equality requires more than just formal rules.

L'égalité réelle exige plus que de simples règles formelles.

Adjective 'substantive' modifying 'equality'.

The discourse surrounding equality has shifted recently.

Le discours entourant l'égalité a changé récemment.

Noun 'discourse' with a present participle phrase.

Intersectionality is crucial to understanding modern equality.

L'intersectionnalité est cruciale pour comprendre l'égalité moderne.

Academic terminology.

The policy aims to rectify historical lack of equality.

La politique vise à rectifier le manque historique d'égalité.

Infinitive phrase 'to rectify'.

The tension between liberty and equality is a classic debate.

La tension entre liberté et égalité est un débat classique.

Coordinating conjunction 'and' connecting two abstract nouns.

He argued that absolute equality is an unattainable ideal.

Il a soutenu que l'égalité absolue est un idéal inatteignable.

Noun clause starting with 'that'.

The treaty guarantees the sovereign equality of all states.

Le traité garantit l'égalité souveraine de tous les États.

Formal political terminology.

The philosophical underpinnings of equality are profound.

Les fondements philosophiques de l'égalité sont profonds.

Noun phrase 'philosophical underpinnings'.

The paradox of equality often manifests in democratic societies.

Le paradoxe de l'égalité se manifeste souvent dans les sociétés démocratiques.

Verb 'manifests' with a prepositional phrase.

She explored the nuances of egalitarian equality in her thesis.

Elle a exploré les nuances de l'égalité égalitaire dans sa thèse.

Adjective 'egalitarian' used for precision.

The erosion of economic equality poses a threat to stability.

L'érosion de l'égalité économique constitue une menace pour la stabilité.

Nominalization 'erosion of economic equality'.

The legal doctrine of equality has been rigorously debated.

La doctrine juridique de l'égalité a été rigoureusement débattue.

Present perfect passive with an adverb.

We must interrogate the systemic impediments to equality.

Nous devons interroger les obstacles systémiques à l'égalité.

Formal verb 'interrogate'.

The conceptual framework of equality is multifaceted.

Le cadre conceptuel de l'égalité est multiforme.

Adjective 'multifaceted'.

The pursuit of equality is an enduring human endeavor.

La quête de l'égalité est une entreprise humaine durable.

Elevated vocabulary like 'endeavor' and 'enduring'.

Synonyms

fairness parity sameness uniformity evenness

Antonyms

inequality disparity imbalance

Common Collocations

gender equality

racial equality

economic equality

marriage equality

equality of opportunity

strive for equality

promote equality

ensure equality

achieve equality

social equality

Common Phrases

Equality before the law

— The principle that every person is subject to the same laws.

Equality before the law is a pillar of democracy.

In the interest of equality

— Doing something to make a situation fairer.

The rules were changed in the interest of equality.

Equality of outcome

— The idea that everyone should end up with the same results.

Some people argue against equality of outcome.

A quest for equality

— A long and difficult search or struggle for fairness.

The book details her quest for equality.

Fight for equality

— To work hard to get fair treatment for a group.

They continue to fight for equality in the workplace.

A lack of equality

— When a situation is not fair or equal.

The report noted a lack of equality in funding.

Commitment to equality

— A strong promise to work for fairness.

The company has a strong commitment to equality.

Promoting equality

— Encouraging and supporting fair treatment.

Promoting equality is part of our mission.

The principle of equality

— The basic rule or belief that things should be equal.

He lives by the principle of equality.

Struggle for equality

— A difficult effort to achieve fair treatment.

The struggle for equality continues in many countries.

Often Confused With

equality vs equity

Equality is giving everyone the same; equity is giving everyone what they need to be equal.

equality vs equal

Equality is the noun (the concept); equal is the adjective (the description).

equality vs equivalence

Equality is about status and rights; equivalence is about having the same value or function.

Idioms & Expressions

"Level playing field"

— A situation where everyone has the same opportunities.

The new regulations will create a level playing field for all companies.

informal

"Separate but equal"

— A historical legal doctrine that was used to justify segregation (now viewed negatively).

The 'separate but equal' policy was eventually overturned.

formal/historical

"Fair shake"

— A fair opportunity or treatment.

Everyone deserves a fair shake in life.

informal

"Even-handed"

— Treating everyone fairly and equally.

The manager was known for his even-handed approach.

neutral

"Fair and square"

— In a way that is honest and follows the rules.

She won the competition fair and square.

informal

"Share and share alike"

— To share things equally between everyone.

In this house, we share and share alike.

informal

"A fair crack of the whip"

— An equal opportunity to do something.

He just wants a fair crack of the whip at the job.

informal/British

"Give someone their due"

— To give someone the credit or treatment they deserve.

To give him his due, he did work very hard.

neutral

"Fair play"

— Respect for the rules and equal treatment in a game or life.

The fans cheered for the team's sense of fair play.

neutral

"What's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander"

— What is acceptable for one person should be acceptable for another.

If he can leave early, so can I; what's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.

informal

Easily Confused

equality vs equity

They sound similar and both relate to fairness.

Equality means sameness of treatment, while equity means fairness of treatment based on individual needs.

Giving everyone a size 10 shoe is equality; giving everyone a shoe that fits is equity.

equality vs parity

Both mean being equal.

Parity is usually used for measurable things like numbers, pay, or representation.

The company achieved gender parity on its board.

equality vs uniformity

Both involve things being the same.

Uniformity means everything is identical in form; equality means everything is the same in value or rights.

The soldiers marched in uniformity, but they all had equality of rights.

equality vs identity

In math, identity and equality are related.

Identity means being the exact same thing; equality means having the same value.

The identity of the thief was unknown, but the equality of the two numbers was clear.

equality vs fairness

They are often used as synonyms.

Fairness is more subjective and personal; equality is more objective and structural.

It was a matter of fairness that he got a turn, but a matter of equality that he had the right to vote.

Sentence Patterns

Equality is [adjective].

Equality is good.

[Noun] equality is [adjective].

Gender equality is important.

We must strive for [adjective] equality.

We must strive for social equality.

The goal is to achieve equality of [noun].

The goal is to achieve equality of opportunity.

The principle of equality is [verb] by [noun].

The principle of equality is upheld by the constitution.

Interrogating the [adjective] barriers to equality is [adjective].

Interrogating the systemic barriers to equality is essential.

There is a lack of equality in [noun].

There is a lack of equality in the workplace.

Equality between [noun] and [noun] is [adjective].

Equality between the two groups is necessary.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in news, education, and political discourse.

Common Mistakes

We want an equality for all. → We want equality for all.
Equality is an abstract, uncountable noun and does not take the indefinite article 'an'.
They are equality in my eyes. → They are equal in my eyes.
You need the adjective 'equal' to describe the people, not the noun 'equality'.
The equalities of the two groups. → The equality of the two groups.
Unless you are in a math class, 'equality' should be singular.
We need to provide equality to everyone. → We need to provide equality for everyone.
The preposition 'for' is more common when talking about providing rights to a group.
The gender equality is important. → Gender equality is important.
When talking about a general concept, you don't usually need the definite article 'the'.

Tips

Noun vs. Adjective

Remember that 'equality' is the noun and 'equal' is the adjective. You have 'equal rights' because of 'equality.'

Global Concept

Equality is a universal value, but how it is achieved can look different in every country. Always consider the cultural context.

Uncountable Noun

Treat 'equality' as uncountable. You don't need 'a' before it, and you don't usually make it plural.

Use Specific Adjectives

To be clearer, use adjectives like 'social,' 'legal,' or 'economic' before the word 'equality.'

Avoid Repetition

If you use 'equality' too much in an essay, try using 'fairness' or 'parity' to keep your writing interesting.

Stress the Second Syllable

When speaking, make sure to emphasize the 'QUAL' part of the word: e-QUAL-i-ty.

Listen for Prepositions

Pay attention to 'of' and 'between' after 'equality' to know exactly what is being compared.

Equality vs. Equity

Keep the 'boxes and fence' analogy in mind to remember the difference between equality and equity.

Respectful Usage

Use the word 'equality' with respect, as it is a very important and sometimes sensitive topic for many people.

Read Famous Speeches

Reading speeches by leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. can help you see how 'equality' is used to inspire people.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'E-QUAL-ity'. Everyone gets a QUALity life when there is equality. The 'E' stands for Everyone.

Visual Association

Imagine a scale that is perfectly balanced with a person on each side, showing that they weigh the same in importance.

Word Web

fairness rights justice balance gender racial opportunity law

Challenge

Try to use the word 'equality' in three different sentences today: one about school, one about a sport, and one about a famous person.

Word Origin

The word 'equality' comes from the Old French word 'equalité', which in turn comes from the Latin word 'aequalitas'.

Original meaning: In Latin, 'aequalitas' meant 'evenness', 'similarity', or 'likeness', derived from 'aequus', meaning 'even', 'level', or 'fair'.

It belongs to the Indo-European language family, specifically the Italic branch via Latin.

Cultural Context

Be aware that 'equality' can be a sensitive topic when discussing historical injustices or current social disparities.

In the US and UK, 'equality' is a key term in political discourse, often debated in the context of 'equality of opportunity' vs. 'equality of outcome'.

The Declaration of Independence ('All men are created equal') Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' speech The Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Politics

equality of opportunity
legal equality
civil rights
voting equality

Workplace

pay equality
gender parity
equal opportunity employer
workplace fairness

Education

educational equality
equal access
fair grading
inclusive learning

Sports

fair play
equal funding
level playing field
unbiased refereeing

Mathematics

equality of expressions
equals sign
solving for equality
mathematical identity

Conversation Starters

"What does equality mean to you in your daily life?"

"Do you think gender equality has been achieved in your country?"

"How can schools better promote equality among students?"

"Why is equality before the law so important for a democracy?"

"Can you think of a time when you saw equality in action?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you felt treated unfairly and how equality could have changed the situation.

Describe what a perfectly equal society would look like to you.

Reflect on the difference between equality and equity in your own community.

Discuss a famous person who fought for equality and why their work matters.

How has your understanding of the word 'equality' changed as you've grown older?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The simplest definition is that everyone is treated the same and has the same rights. It is about fairness for all people, regardless of who they are. In a classroom, it means every student gets the same attention from the teacher.

No, they are different. Equality means giving everyone the same thing. Equity means giving people what they need to reach the same level. For example, equality is giving everyone the same box to stand on; equity is giving a shorter person a taller box so they can see over the fence.

You can use it as a subject or an object. For example, 'Equality is important' or 'We are fighting for equality.' It is an abstract noun, so you don't usually say 'an equality.'

Common types include gender equality (fairness for all genders), racial equality (fairness for all races), and economic equality (fairness in wealth and income). You might also hear about marriage equality or educational equality.

Yes, equality is considered a fundamental human right. Many international documents, like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, state that all people are born free and equal in dignity and rights.

This means that everyone has the same chance to succeed, regardless of their background. For example, if two people apply for a job, they should both be judged only on their skills and not on their race or gender.

Yes, in math, equality means that two values or expressions are exactly the same. We use the equals sign (=) to show this relationship, such as 2 + 2 = 4.

The most common opposite is 'inequality.' Other words like 'disparity' or 'discrimination' also describe situations where equality is missing.

Gender equality is important because it ensures that men, women, and non-binary people have the same rights and opportunities. This leads to a fairer society and a stronger economy where everyone can contribute their talents.

You can improve by learning common collocations like 'strive for equality' or 'promote equality.' Also, try to understand the difference between equality and related words like fairness and equity.