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March 24, 2026
等于(等於)děngyú(deng3yu2)
等于 (deng3 yu2) means 'to equal' or 'to be tantamount to.' It is commonly used in mathematical contexts to express equality, as well as in metaphorical contexts to indicate equivalence between concepts or situations. This term is essential when discussing comparisons or making analogies in both formal and informal settings.
Strokes15Frequency#3224DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese education, mathematics is highly emphasized, and the concept of equality is foundational in both academic and real-life applications. Understanding 等于 is crucial for engaging in discussions about fairness and balance in social contexts.
Memory Tip
Imagine two equal scales balancing perfectly, each representing the two sides of an equation. The character 等 (deng) resembles a horizontal line, symbolizing balance, while 于 (yu) can be visualized as a bridge connecting two equal sides, reinforcing the idea of equality.
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AI Study Notes for 等于
Quick Contrast
相等 (xiāngděng) vs 等于 (děngyú): Use 相等 when emphasizing strict equality, often in mathematical contexts, while 等于 can imply a broader equivalence that may include metaphorical comparisons.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 等于 with similar expressions like 相等 (xiang1 deng3), which is more formal. Use 等于 in both academic and everyday contexts, but ensure the subject and object are clear to avoid ambiguity in your statements.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 等于 connects well with other mathematical or comparative vocabulary. Focus on practicing its use in sentences that involve comparisons, such as 'A 等于 B' to build a strong understanding of how it functions in different contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 等于 with the word 认为 (ren4 wei2), which means 'to think' or 'to consider.' For example, saying '我认为这等于真理' (I think this equals truth) is incorrect; use '这等于真理' (This is tantamount to truth) instead.
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Pronunciation of 等于
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等于 (deng3 yu2) means 'to equal' or 'to be tantamount to.' It is commonly used in mathematical contexts to express equality, as well as in metaphorical contexts to indicate equivalence between concepts or situations. This term is essential when discussing comparisons or making analogies in both formal and informal settings.
When to use 等于
Be careful not to confuse 等于 with similar expressions like 相等 (xiang1 deng3), which is more formal. Use 等于 in both academic and everyday contexts, but ensure the subject and object are clear to avoid ambiguity in your statements.
等于 or something close to it
相等 (xiāngděng) vs 等于 (děngyú): Use 相等 when emphasizing strict equality, often in mathematical contexts, while 等于 can imply a broader equivalence that may include metaphorical comparisons.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 等于 with the word 认为 (ren4 wei2), which means 'to think' or 'to consider.' For example, saying '我认为这等于真理' (I think this equals truth) is incorrect; use '这等于真理' (This is tantamount to truth) instead.
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Grammar Patterns of 等于
等于 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
