equal
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equal
To be equal in terms of ability, performance, rank, or quality. It is often used to describe opponents or competitors who are on the same level.
Die beiden Finalisten waren sich in dem spannenden Match absolut ebenbürtig.
The two finalists were absolutely equal in the exciting match.
The word consists of 'eben' (equal, on the same level) and 'bürtig' (derived from 'Geburt', meaning birth). Originally, it described people of the same noble rank; today it generally means 'gleichwertig' (equal) in terms of abilities.
Er suchte einen ebenbürtigen Diskussionspartner.
He was looking for an equal discussion partner.
If you want to express whom someone is equal to, the preposition 'an' with the dative is used, or the dative is used directly. The construction 'jemandem ebenbürtig sein' (to be equal to someone) is very common.
Die junge Spielerin war ihrer erfahrenen Gegnerin absolut ebenbürtig.
The young player was absolutely equal to her experienced opponent.
The adjective is often used in the context of competition and rivalry. Common combinations are 'ein ebenbürtiger Gegner' (an equal opponent), 'ein ebenbürtiger Konkurrent' (an equal competitor), or 'ein ebenbürtiger Partner' (an equal partner).
Im Finale trafen zwei ebenbürtige Mannschaften aufeinander.
In the final, two equal teams faced each other.
immediate / same
'gleich' and 'ebenbürtig' can both express that two people or things are on the same level. 'gleich' is more general and can refer to value, rights, rank, or importance. 'ebenbürtig' is used mainly when comparing ability, performance, or strength. It sounds especially natural with opponents, competitors, or people who are competing against each other. So 'ebenbürtig' does not simply mean 'gleich', but rather 'equally strong' or 'on the same level'.
Im Finale war die junge Spielerin ihrer Gegnerin ebenbürtig.
In the final, the young player was equal to her opponent.
Bei der Abstimmung zählt jede Stimme gleich.
In the vote, every vote counts equally.