Equal to means the same in amount, size or value as something else. It's used to compare numbers, sums, sizes and quantities: The cost is equal to two months' rent. It sounds neutral and works in conversation, reports and essays.
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be equal to + number/amount/noun; roughly/almost equal to; be equal to the task
- The baggage limit is 23 kilograms, which is roughly equal to 50 pounds.
- Her monthly rent is almost equal to half of her salary.
- The new manager had little experience, but she proved equal to the task.
What changed
First versionOne mile is equal 1.6 kilometres.
RevisionOne mile is equal to 1.6 kilometres.
To is easy to drop because the sentence can seem complete without it. But when is equal is followed by what it equals, you need to: is equal to 1.6 kilometres. Without to, you can only use the verb equals, without is: One mile equals 1.6 kilometres.
About a person, equal to the task doesn't mean the same as the task: it means able to cope, up to the job. She was new to the job, but she proved equal to the task. It's also common with a negative: I didn't feel equal to the challenge, meaning I felt I couldn't manage it.
Your turn
One inch is almost ___ 2.5 centimetres.
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equal to — After is, you need the full phrase equal to: is almost equal to 2.5 centimetres. Native speakers don't say is almost equal 2.5 centimetres: without to, the sentence falls apart.
Compare the prices of two things in your life. Name both and say what one price is equal to in terms of the other.
My monthly gym membership is equal to the price of three cinema tickets.
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