To say or think that two things are the same or very similar. In math, it means to show that two expressions have the same value.
From Latin *aequare* 'to make equal', from *aequus* 'level, equal'. The English verb developed both a mathematical use and a more general 'treat as the same' meaning.
When you equate things in everyday life—like 'money equals success'—you’re quietly building equations in your mind. Those mental equations can guide your choices even if they’re not actually true. Noticing what you equate with what is a sneaky way to discover your real values.
“Equate” is neutral, but has been used in harmful comparisons, such as equating women’s worth primarily with appearance or caregiving, or equating certain genders with particular roles. Such equations can naturalize stereotypes and unequal treatment.
Be careful about what you equate; avoid equating genders with fixed traits or roles. When challenging stereotypes, make explicit that such equations are inaccurate and harmful.
["treat as the same","conflate","regard as equivalent"]
Women scholars and activists have challenged reductive equations—such as equating femininity with passivity—opening space for more diverse gender expressions and roles.
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