Learn English – Equal vs Equivalent: Finer differences in meaning and usage? in 4 distinct scenarios outlined

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Equal vs Equivalent: Finer differences in meaning and usage?

What would be the subtler differences & similarities?

Examples & scenarios where:

  • Only one can be used
  • Both can be used
  • One is more apt
  • Changing one with the other changes the meaning / specificity of meaning

Best Answer

"Equal" and "equivalent" are equivalent, but they're not equal. :-)

They have similar, but not identical meanings. Equal means the same thing, but equivalent means that one can frequently be substituted for the other.