Inklingo

How to Say "to equate" in Spanish

English → Spanish

comparar

kohm-pah-RAHR/kompaˈɾaɾ/

verbB2general
Use 'comparar' when you are pointing out similarities or differences between two distinct concepts or things, often using figurative language.
A bright yellow sun in the sky next to a bright yellow sunflower on the ground.

Examples

El poeta compara la vida con un río.

The poet likens life to a river.

No puedes comparar la libertad con el dinero.

You cannot equate freedom with money.

equipar

/eh-kee-par//ekiˈpaɾ/

verbB2general
Use 'equipar' when you are asserting that two different things are equal in value, importance, or status, which is often an incorrect assertion.
A classic balance scale with a red apple on one side and a green apple on the other, perfectly balanced.

Examples

No puedes equipar el éxito con el dinero.

You cannot equate success with money.

Es un error equipar ambas situaciones; son muy diferentes.

It is a mistake to equate both situations; they are very different.

Comparing with 'a'

When using this meaning, you are often 'equating A to B'. In Spanish, this follows the pattern 'equipar algo a otra cosa'.

Confusing with 'equalize'

Mistake: “Equipar el marcador.”

Correction: Empatar el marcador. Use 'empatar' for scores in sports, and 'equipar' for comparing abstract ideas.

Comparar vs. Equipar

Learners often confuse 'comparar' and 'equipar'. Remember that 'comparar' is about drawing parallels or contrasts (likening), while 'equipar' implies a direct assertion of equality, often to argue against it.

Related Translations

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