Equal in value or corresponding in terms of value, meaning, or effect. It is often used with the preposition 'zu' (to).
example
Ein Bachelor-Abschluss aus diesem Land ist nicht direkt äquivalent zu einem deutschen.
A bachelor's degree from this country is not directly equivalent to a German one.
Usage tips
Fixed preposition
The adjective 'äquivalent' (equivalent) is almost always used with the preposition 'zu' and the dative. The structure is: something is equivalent to something.
EXAMPLE
Diese berufliche Qualifikation ist zu einem Master-Abschluss äquivalent.
This professional qualification is equivalent to a master's degree.
Register and style
'Äquivalent' (equivalent) is a word used in written language and especially in formal, academic, or technical contexts. It is rather rare in everyday speech.
EXAMPLE
Der materielle Wert ist äquivalent zu den Herstellungskosten.
The material value is equivalent to the production costs.
Typical collocations
'Äquivalent' (equivalent) is often used with abstract nouns such as 'Wert' (value), 'Leistung' (performance/achievement), 'Betrag' (amount), or 'Abschluss' (degree) to make a comparison.
EXAMPLE
Der Bewerber muss eine äquivalente Leistung nachweisen.
The applicant must provide proof of an equivalent achievement.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
äquivalent vs entsprechend
corresponding / according
'entsprechend' and 'äquivalent' can both express that two things fit together or are comparable. But 'äquivalent' more specifically means that two things are equivalent, for example in value, effect, or meaning. 'entsprechend' is more general and can simply mean 'suitable' or 'appropriate to something', without both things having the same value. The words can be confused when you are comparing something. If you want to emphasize equivalence, 'äquivalent' fits. If you only mean that something is appropriate to the situation, 'entsprechend' is more natural.
äquivalent
Diese Ausbildung ist zu einem deutschen Abschluss äquivalent.
This training is equivalent to a German qualification.
entsprechend
Für die kalten Tage haben wir entsprechende Kleidung eingepackt.