Equivalence vs equivalency, which one is the correct word? This is a common question that arises when trying to compare two things. The answer is simple, both words are correct, but they are used in different contexts. Equivalence and equivalency are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings.
Equivalence means the state of being equal in value, amount, function, or meaning. It is used to describe things that are equal in some way, such as two different currencies that have the same value. Equivalence is also used in mathematics to describe the relationship between two things that have the same value, but are expressed differently. For example, 1 kilogram is equivalent to 2.20462 pounds.
On the other hand, equivalency means the quality of being equivalent. It is used to describe the relationship between two things that are equal in some way. Equivalency is often used in education to describe the relationship between different courses or degrees. For example, a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration may have an equivalency to a Master’s degree in Management.
In this article, we will explore the differences between equivalence and equivalency, and how they are used in different contexts. We will also look at some examples of how these terms are used in everyday language.
Define Equivalence
Equivalence is a term used to describe the state of being equal or interchangeable in value, function, or meaning. It refers to a relationship between two or more things that have the same effect, significance, or importance. In mathematical terms, equivalence is a relation between two sets that have the same cardinality, meaning they have the same number of elements.
For example, if we say that two fractions, such as 1/2 and 2/4, are equivalent, we mean that they represent the same value, even though they look different. This is because they have the same ratio of numerator to denominator, which is 1:2. Therefore, they are interchangeable and can be used in the same way in mathematical operations.
Define Equivalency
Equivalency is a term used to describe the state of being equivalent or having the same value, function, or meaning. It refers to a comparison between two or more things that are similar or comparable in some way. In educational terms, equivalency is a recognition of the similarity between two qualifications or courses of study.
For example, if we say that a high school diploma is equivalent to a GED, we mean that they have the same value and can be used interchangeably for the purpose of further education or employment. This is because they both represent a certain level of academic achievement and demonstrate that the holder has acquired a certain set of skills and knowledge.
Equivalency can also refer to the process of establishing a relationship between two different systems of measurement or units of analysis. For example, converting Celsius to Fahrenheit involves using an equivalency formula that relates the two scales of temperature.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to using words in a sentence, it is important to understand their meanings and how they differ from each other. This is especially true for words that are similar in spelling and pronunciation, such as equivalence and equivalency.
How To Use “Equivalence” In A Sentence
The word “equivalence” refers to the state of being equal or interchangeable in value, function, or meaning. Here are some examples of how to use “equivalence” in a sentence:
- The two formulas are of equivalent value.
- The equivalence of the two theories is still a topic of debate.
- The drug is a generic equivalent of the brand-name medication.
As you can see, “equivalence” is used to describe a relationship between two things that are equal or interchangeable in some way.
How To Use “Equivalency” In A Sentence
The word “equivalency” is a noun that refers to the quality of being equivalent. Here are some examples of how to use “equivalency” in a sentence:
- The equivalency of the two degrees is recognized by the university.
- The equivalency of the two tests is determined by a panel of experts.
- The equivalency of the two currencies is constantly fluctuating.
As you can see, “equivalency” is used to describe the quality of being equivalent, rather than a relationship between two things that are equivalent.
More Examples Of Equivalence & Equivalency Used In Sentences
In order to better understand the difference between equivalence and equivalency, it can be helpful to see how they are used in different contexts. Here are some examples of both terms being used in sentences:
Examples Of Using Equivalence In A Sentence
- The equivalence of the two equations can be proven using algebraic manipulation.
- There is an equivalence between the amount of energy in a system and its mass.
- The equivalence of the two drugs in treating the disease has not yet been established.
- There is an equivalence between the two currencies, so the exchange rate is one-to-one.
- The equivalence of the two theories has been debated by scholars for decades.
- There is an equivalence between the two languages, so the translation is straightforward.
- The equivalence of the two products in terms of quality has been confirmed by independent testing.
- There is an equivalence between the two methods of calculation, so either can be used.
- The equivalence of the two policies has been called into question by recent events.
- There is an equivalence between the two chemical compounds, so they can be used interchangeably.
Examples Of Using Equivalency In A Sentence
- The equivalency of the two degrees has been established by the university.
- There is an equivalency between the two courses, so they can be used to satisfy the same requirement.
- The equivalency of the two job titles has been recognized by the human resources department.
- There is an equivalency between the two levels of certification, so either can be pursued.
- The equivalency of the two testing methods has been established by industry standards.
- There is an equivalency between the two types of insurance coverage, so either can be chosen.
- The equivalency of the two sets of data has been confirmed by statistical analysis.
- There is an equivalency between the two brands of the product, so the cheaper one can be purchased.
- The equivalency of the two training programs has been evaluated by an independent organization.
- There is an equivalency between the two levels of experience, so either can be considered for the job.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using equivalence and equivalency, people often make the mistake of using these terms interchangeably. However, these two terms are not interchangeable, and using them incorrectly can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Let’s take a closer look at some common mistakes people make when using equivalence and equivalency interchangeably, and how to avoid making these mistakes in the future.
Using Equivalence And Equivalency Interchangeably
One common mistake people make is using equivalence and equivalency interchangeably. Equivalence refers to the state of being equal or interchangeable in value, function, or meaning. On the other hand, equivalency refers to the quality of being equivalent or comparable to something else. While these two terms may seem similar, they have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably.
For example, saying “The equivalence of these two products is undeniable” implies that the two products are equal in value, function, or meaning. However, saying “The equivalency of these two products is undeniable” implies that the two products are comparable or similar to each other.
Using Equivalency As A Noun
Another common mistake is using equivalency as a noun. Equivalency is actually an adjective, and should be used to describe the quality of being equivalent or comparable to something else. Using equivalency as a noun can lead to confusion and awkward phrasing.
For example, saying “There is an equivalency between these two products” is incorrect. Instead, you should say “There is an equivalent quality between these two products.”
Using Equivalence As An Adjective
Similarly, using equivalence as an adjective is also incorrect. Equivalence is a noun, and should be used to refer to the state of being equal or interchangeable in value, function, or meaning.
For example, saying “These two products are equivalence” is incorrect. Instead, you should say “These two products are equivalent.”
Tips To Avoid These Mistakes
To avoid making these common mistakes, it’s important to understand the difference between equivalence and equivalency. Remember that equivalence refers to the state of being equal or interchangeable in value, function, or meaning, while equivalency refers to the quality of being equivalent or comparable to something else.
Here are some tips to help you avoid these mistakes:
- Use equivalence when referring to the state of being equal or interchangeable in value, function, or meaning
- Use equivalency when referring to the quality of being equivalent or comparable to something else
- Avoid using equivalency as a noun
- Avoid using equivalence as an adjective
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between equivalence and equivalency, the decision can be heavily influenced by the context in which they are used. The two terms are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences that can affect their appropriateness in certain situations.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some different contexts and how the choice between equivalence and equivalency might change:
Legal Context
In a legal context, the choice between equivalence and equivalency can have significant implications. Equivalence is often used to describe the relationship between two things that are essentially the same, but not identical. For example, a generic medication may be considered equivalent to a brand-name medication if it contains the same active ingredients and has the same therapeutic effect. However, in a legal context, the term equivalency may be used to describe a more stringent standard of sameness. For example, two contracts may be considered equivalent only if they have the same terms, conditions, and legal effect.
Educational Context
In an educational context, the choice between equivalence and equivalency may depend on the subject matter being discussed. Equivalence may be used to describe the relationship between two mathematical expressions that have the same value, but are written differently. For example, 2+3 and 5 are equivalent expressions. However, in a language learning context, the term equivalency may be used to describe the relationship between words or phrases in different languages that have the same meaning. For example, the Spanish word “amigo” and the English word “friend” are considered equivalent because they have the same meaning.
Scientific Context
In a scientific context, the choice between equivalence and equivalency may depend on the level of precision required. Equivalence may be used to describe the relationship between two substances that have the same chemical composition, but different physical properties. For example, two isotopes of an element may be considered equivalent if they have the same number of protons and neutrons, but different atomic masses. However, in a more precise scientific context, the term equivalency may be used to describe a more exact relationship between two things. For example, in biochemistry, the term equivalency may be used to describe the relationship between two amino acids that have the same chemical properties and can substitute for each other in a protein sequence without affecting its function.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the use of equivalence and equivalency follows a set of rules, there are some exceptions where these rules may not apply. Below are some examples of such exceptions:
1. Technical Jargon
In technical jargon, the use of equivalence and equivalency may be limited or even unnecessary. Technical terms and phrases are often used to describe specific concepts that cannot be replaced by their equivalent or equivalent terms. For example, the term “quantum entanglement” is a technical term used in physics, and its equivalent or equivalent term may not exist in other fields.
2. Regional Differences
Regional differences in language can also affect the use of equivalence and equivalency. For instance, the word “biscuit” in the UK refers to what Americans call “cookie.” In such cases, using the equivalent or equivalent term may cause confusion or misinterpretation.
3. Cultural Context
Cultural context can also play a role in the use of equivalence and equivalency. For example, in some cultures, certain words or phrases may carry a different connotation or meaning than in others. The equivalent or equivalent term may not accurately convey the intended meaning in such cases.
4. Idiomatic Expressions
Idiomatic expressions are phrases that do not have a literal meaning and are unique to a language or culture. The equivalent or equivalent term may not exist in other languages or cultures. For example, the English expression “kick the bucket” means to die, but its equivalent or equivalent term may not exist in other languages.
5. Legal Terminology
In legal terminology, the use of equivalence and equivalency may be limited or even discouraged. Legal terms and phrases are often used to describe specific legal concepts that cannot be replaced by their equivalent or equivalent terms. Using the equivalent or equivalent term may cause confusion or misinterpretation in legal contexts.
It is important to note that while these exceptions exist, they should not be used as a justification for incorrect usage of equivalence and equivalency. In most cases, it is still necessary to follow the established rules for using these terms to ensure clarity and accuracy in communication.
Practice Exercises
To improve your understanding and use of equivalence and equivalency in sentences, practice exercises can be incredibly helpful. Here are a few exercises to get you started:
Exercise 1: Equivalence
For each of the following sentences, identify the word or phrase that is equivalent to the underlined word or phrase:
| Sentence | Underlined Word/Phrase | Equivalent Word/Phrase |
|---|---|---|
| She was ecstatic when she found out she got the job. | ecstatic | overjoyed |
| The teacher was furious when she saw the mess in the classroom. | furious | angry |
| His new car is a real beauty. | beauty | gem |
Answer Key:
- ecstatic – overjoyed
- furious – angry
- beauty – gem
Exercise 2: Equivalency
For each of the following sentences, choose the correct form of equivalency:
- John’s and Mary’s test scores were ________.
- equivalent
- equivalency
- equivalent
- equivalency
- equivalent
- equivalency
Answer Key:
- John’s and Mary’s test scores were equivalent.
- The equivalency of the two plans is still being debated.
- The two products are not equivalent in quality.
Conclusion
After exploring the nuances of equivalence and equivalency, it is clear that these terms are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings in the field of grammar and language use. Equivalence refers to the equal value or meaning between two things, while equivalency refers to the state of being equivalent or the degree to which two things are equal.
It is important to understand the difference between these terms in order to use them correctly and effectively in writing and communication. Using the wrong term can lead to confusion and misinterpretation of the intended meaning.
Key Takeaways
- Equivalence and equivalency are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings.
- Equivalence refers to equal value or meaning between two things.
- Equivalency refers to the state of being equivalent or the degree to which two things are equal.
- Using the wrong term can lead to confusion and misinterpretation of the intended meaning.
By continuing to learn about grammar and language use, readers can improve their writing and communication skills and avoid common mistakes. There are many resources available, including books, online courses, and writing groups, that can help individuals improve their language use and become more effective communicators.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.