Translation guide
Expresses that two or more things are the same in value, amount, status, or quality. Japanese uses different words depending on what is being compared: numbers, people, objects, or abstract qualities.
To say that two numbers, amounts, or values are the same.
The most direct equivalent for mathematical or numerical equality. Often used in formal or written contexts.
AとBは等しい。
A and B are equal.
この二つの値は等しい。
These two values are equal.
Very common and versatile. Can be used for equality in value, amount, or identity. More casual than 等しい.
この二つの金額は同じです。
These two amounts are equal.
AとBは同じ長さだ。
A and B are equal in length.
Pattern meaning 'equal to ~'. Used with nouns or numbers.
その結果はゼロに等しい。
The result is equal to zero.
To express that people or groups have the same rights, opportunities, or treatment.
Refers to equality in a social, legal, or moral sense. Often used as a noun or na-adjective.
すべての人は平等だ。
All people are equal.
男女平等が大切です。
Gender equality is important.
Emphasizes equality in a relationship or partnership, often between individuals or organizations.
To say that two things or people are on the same level in terms of skill, quality, or intensity.
Means 'equivalent' or 'of the same standard'. Common in formal contexts.
この製品は海外のものと同等の品質です。
This product is equal in quality to overseas ones.
Used when two opponents or competitors are evenly matched. Common in sports or games.
To state that one side of an equation is equal to the other.
Standard pattern for mathematical equations.
x + y は 10 と等しい。
x + y is equal to 10.
Loanword from English 'equal'. Used in casual or spoken math contexts.
この式は5イコール5だ。
This equation is 5 equals 5.
等しい is more formal and often used for abstract or numerical equality. 同じ is more common in everyday speech and can also mean 'the same' in identity. For 'equal in value', both can be used, but 同じ is more natural in casual conversation.
この二つは同じ値段だ。
These two are the same price (equal in price).
この二つの値段は等しい。
The prices of these two are equal. (more formal)
When talking about equality among people (rights, treatment), use 平等 or 対等. 等しい sounds unnatural for social equality.
私たちは皆平等だ。
We are all equal.
彼らは対等な立場で話し合った。
They discussed as equals.
The two teams are equal in strength.