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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.
Frequency#3224DifficultyMedium
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.
Memory Mnemonic
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.
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.
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.
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.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 等于
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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.
Going grey is not necessarily synonymous with growing old.
3
二加五等于七。
èr jiā wǔ děng yú qī。
Two plus five is seven.
4
四减二等于二.
sì jiǎn èr děng yú èr.
Take away ２ from ４ and you get ２.
5
二加二等于四是确定无疑的.
èr jiā èr děng yú sì shì què dìng wú yí de.
It is certain that two and two makes four.
6
五减三等于二.
wǔ jiǎn sān děng yú èr.
Five minus three is two.
7
三乘四 等于 十二.
sān chéng sì děng yú.
Three times four is [ are ] twelve.
8
四加二 等于 六.
sì jiā èr děng yú.
Four plus two equals [ is ] six.
9
二加三等于五.
èr jiā sān děng yú wǔ.
Two plus three makes five.
10
三加二等于五.
sān jiā èr děng yú wǔ.
Three plus two equals five.
Cultural Notes for 等于
🏮Cultural insight
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.
Frequently Asked Questions about 等于
Yes, 等于 can be used in both formal and informal conversations when comparing things or indicating equivalence.
While both mean 'to equal,' 等于 is more commonly used in both casual and formal contexts, while 相等 is more formal.
The correct pronunciation is 'deng3 yu2,' with the third tone for 等 and the second tone for 于.
