equal

When external circumstances or factors do not or will not affect the outcome or decision of something at hand. All else being equal, I don't see our relationship continuing for much longer.

Having the necessary ability, talent, qualities, or capability to handle or accomplish a given role or situation. The young soldier proved equal to the occasion and saved his platoon from an enemy ambush. We need a manager who can lead project initiatives and efficiently direct employees—do you think you're equal to the occasion?

Having the necessary ability, talent, qualities, or capability to handle or accomplish a given role or situation. The young soldier proved equal to the task and saved his platoon from an enemy ambush. We need a manager who can lead project initiatives and efficiently direct employees—do you think you're equal to the task?

In the event that all aspects of a situation remain the same. Now, I know there are a lot of risks involved, but, all things being equal, I think we should still move ahead with the deal. Alexis is really nervous about committing to a mortgage, but, all things being equal, it will prove to be a great investment.

To be more important or renowned than one's peers. Riley is the best choice for that difficult project—she's first among equals.

to be even or identical with someone or something in something. John equals Bill in strength and size, I think. This cake equals that one in texture but not in richness.

someone as good or as accomplished as someone else. I certainly feel equal to Randy. He's nothing special. I don't think that Bill feels equal to Bob, even though they are twins.

(someone or something) able to handle or deal with someone or something. I'm afraid that I'm not equal to Mrs. Smith's problem right now. Please ask her to come back later. That's a very difficult task, but I'm sure Bill is equal to it.

Cliché if things stay the way they are now; if there are no complications from other factors. Other things being equal, we should have no trouble getting your order to you on time. I anticipate no problems, all things being equal.

segregated but of equal value or quality. (A doctrine once sanctioned by the U.S. Supreme Court regarding racial segregation.) The separate but equal doctrine was abandoned years ago. They were provided with facilities that were said to be separate but equal—but were really of a lower standard.

the best or most important of a similar group The solo violin was first among equals in the midst of all the stringed instruments. Because she is the chairman of the committee, she is, of course, first among equals.

if in all other ways two situations are the same or similar All other things being equal, a professor can get higher ratings from students by giving higher grades.

to officially be on the same level as other members in a group, but in fact have slightly more responsibility or be slightly more important The chairman of the joint chiefs of staff was always considered first among equals.

if everything happens as you expect it to happen All things being equal, I should be home by Thursday.

Adequate or fit in ability or extent, as in I'm not sure I'm equal to the task. [Late 1600s] Also see feel up to; up to.

Also, all else being equal. Given the same circumstances, as in Other things being equal, I prefer the green sofa. This term is a translation of the Latin phrase ceteris paribus, which was widely used until the 18th century, when it began to be replaced by the English equivalent.

Relating to or affected by a policy whereby two groups may be segregated if they are given equal facilities and opportunities. For example, They've divided up the physical education budget so that the girls' teams are separate but equal to the boys . This idiom comes from a Louisiana law of 1890, upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in Plessy v. Ferguson, "requiring all railway companies carrying passengers on their trains in this state, to provide equal but separate accommodations for the white and colored races." Subsequently it was widely used to separate African-Americans from the white population through a general policy of racial segregation. In 1954, in a unanimous ruling to end school segregation, the Supreme Court finally overturned the law (in Brown v. Board of Education).