WordGarden.ioequalize
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈiːkwəlˌaɪz/
US
- /ˈikwəˌlaɪz/
Meanings
Verb
to make things equal in amount, value, level, or status
to score so that both sides have the same score
to adjust audio frequencies to change or balance the sound
Beyond the definition
Imagine two teams in a race, but one gets a head start. To equalize the competition, you might give the slower team a boost - bringing them to the same level as the others. That is what it means to equalize: to make things equal or fair. It is about reducing differences and creating balance. You can equalize scores in a game, opportunities for people, or even pressure within a system. A skilled negotiator might try to equalize the terms of an agreement so both sides feel satisfied.
To equalize means to make something equal or to bring things into balance. It is often used when there is an existing difference that needs correcting. Think about a seesaw: if one side is much heavier, you need to equalize it by adding weight to the lighter side.
The word can be applied in many contexts. In mathematics, to equalize means to make two quantities the same. In sports, it might mean adjusting handicaps or scores to create a fair competition. Economically, governments sometimes try to equalize wealth distribution through taxes and social programs.
But equalization is not always about making things perfectly identical. Sometimes it is about making sure everyone has an equal opportunity. For example, affirmative action policies aim to equalize access to education or employment for historically disadvantaged groups.
You might also hear "equalizer" used as a noun - often referring to a device that adjusts sound frequencies to balance the audio output. In fiction, it can also refer to someone who rights wrongs and brings justice.
So whether you are balancing accounts, leveling the playing field, or adjusting sound settings, equalize is about striving for fairness, balance, and equivalence - bringing things into harmony by addressing existing differences.
Examples
- 1
Air travel
Chewing gum can help equalize the pressure in your ears during takeoff.
- 2
Education funding
The new funding formula aims to equalize resources between rich and poor school districts.
- 3
Audio setup
We adjusted the speakers to equalize the sound across the room.
- 4
Sports score
The home team equalized in the 78th minute.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- equalizeverb
Forms
- equalizedpast tenseverb
- equalizing-ing formverb
- equalizesverb