equal
Loading your saved state.
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.
equivalent
Both words can express equal quality or performance. „Gleichwertig“ is general and works for many things, achievements, or people. „Ebenbürtig“ emphasizes more strongly that people or opponents can compete with each other at the same level of ability, rank, or strength.
Die beiden Spieler waren sich in diesem Spiel als Gegner ebenbürtig.
The two players were evenly matched as opponents in this game.
Die Leistungen der beiden Spieler waren in diesem Spiel gleichwertig.
The two players' performances were equivalent in this game.
