Translation guide
The concept of being on an equal basis or level with others, without advantage or disadvantage.
Describing a situation where people are treated equally, without hierarchy.
Literally 'equal standing/position'. Used for relationships or negotiations where parties are on equal terms.
私たちは対等な立場で話し合った。
We discussed on equal footing.
Similar to 対等な立場, emphasizing equivalence in status or rights.
Emphasizing fair conditions without inherent advantages.
Means 'fair conditions'. Often used in business or competition contexts.
すべての参加者が公平な条件でスタートする。
All participants start on equal footing.
Describing a relationship where both sides have equal say or power.
Directly translates to 'equal partnership'. Common in business and personal contexts.
私たちは対等なパートナーシップを築いている。
We have built a partnership on equal footing.
対等 emphasizes equality in status or power, often in human relationships. 同等 focuses on equivalence in value, rank, or conditions, and can be used for things as well as people.
This sumo-derived metaphor is very common in business and sports. It implies that everyone is subject to the same rules and starting point. Avoid using it in very formal writing.
The two companies signed the contract on equal footing.
Literally 'same sumo ring'. A common metaphor for a level playing field or equal footing in competition.
新人もベテランも同じ土俵で競う。
Newcomers and veterans compete on equal footing.
Uses the English loanword 'even' to describe an equal relationship. More casual and modern.
彼とはイーブンな関係でいたい。
I want to be on equal footing with him.
Simply 'same conditions'. A straightforward way to express equal footing.
同じ条件で評価されるべきだ。
They should be evaluated on equal footing.
Literally 'fifty-fifty relationship'. Implies equal power or contribution.
このプロジェクトは五分五分の関係で進めよう。
Let's proceed with this project on equal footing.
Let's compete on equal footing.
Let's compete on equal footing.