Equally

Definition

Equally is an adverb that means to the same degree or extent, or in an equal manner. It describes distributing, treating, or considering things in a balanced or fair way.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈiːkwəli/
• Respelling: EE-kwuh-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈiːkwəli/
• Respelling: EE-kwuh-lee

Etymology

The word "equally" comes from the Latin "aequalis," meaning "uniform" or "even." It evolved through Old French as "équal," reaching Middle English as "equal." The suffix "-ly" was added to form the adverb, indicating manner or degree.

Derivatives

• Equal (adjective/noun)
• Equality (noun)
• Equalize (verb)
• Equable (adjective)
• Inequality (noun)

Synonyms

• Evenly
• Uniformly
• Fairly

Antonyms

• Unevenly
• Unfairly
• Disproportionately

Usage

The adverb "equally" is commonly used to describe actions or qualities that are distributed evenly or fairly, as in "Resources were equally shared among the team members." It can also convey that two things are considered to the same degree, as in "She is equally skilled in art and science."

Related Terms

• Parity: The state of being equal, especially in status or amount.
• Balance: A state of equal distribution of weight or amount.
• Equivalence: The condition of being equal in value, function, or meaning.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• In an equal or balanced manner: Refers to something being done in a fair or uniform way.
  • Example: "The prize money was divided equally among the winners."
• To the same degree or extent: Describes two or more things that hold the same importance or quality.
  • Example: "He was equally excited about both job offers."