Translation guide
The concept of equality in Japanese can be expressed through words for fairness, sameness, and equal treatment, but the most natural choice depends on whether you are talking about social equality, mathematical equality, or equal distribution.
The state of being equal in status, rights, or opportunities, especially in society.
The most common and general word for equality in social contexts, such as gender equality or racial equality. It emphasizes fairness and lack of discrimination.
Gender equality is a fundamental human right.
All people are equal under the law.
Refers to equality in distribution or allocation, often used for opportunities, resources, or treatment. It implies uniformity and lack of bias, but is less common for broad social equality than 平等.
Means fairness or impartiality. While not a direct translation of 'equality', it is often used in contexts where equality is about fair treatment. It focuses on justice rather than sameness.
The state of being identical in value, quantity, or measure.
An adjective meaning 'equal' in the sense of being the same in value, size, or amount. Used in mathematical and logical contexts.
A is equal to B.
Means 'equivalence' or 'equal in rank/value'. Often used in comparisons of quality, status, or standards.
Loanword from English 'equal', used mainly in casual or technical contexts to mean 'equals' as a sign or concept. Often seen in mathematics or informal speech.
Dividing something into equal parts or ensuring equal amounts.
As above, but specifically for equal division or allocation. Often used with words like 分配 (distribution) or 割り当て (allotment).
Distribute profits equally.
Means dividing into equal parts. Often used as a noun or verb (等分する). Common in everyday contexts like sharing food.
平等 (びょうどう) is about equal status/rights and is the best general translation for social equality. 公平 (こうへい) is about fairness and impartiality, often used in rules or judgments. 均等 (きんとう) is about equal distribution or uniformity, used for dividing things evenly.
平等 is not used for mathematical equality. Use 等しい (ひとしい) or the symbol イコール instead.
機会の均等を保障する。
Guarantee equal opportunities.
公平な扱いを受ける権利がある。
You have the right to fair treatment.
Prove that the two quantities are equal.
この製品は海外のものと同等の品質です。
This product is of equal quality to overseas ones.
この記号はイコールを表す。
This symbol represents equals.
ケーキを4等分する。
Divide the cake into four equal parts.