Definition

Adjective: - Equal, of the same rank or status: Describes a relationship where two or more parties are on the same level, without hierarchy or superiority. It implies parity in position, age, generation, or social standing.

Usage

The word ngang hàng is used to describe a relationship of equality between individuals or groups. It is often used in social, familial, or professional contexts. - It typically functions as an adjective, following a noun or used with the verb là (to be). - It can be used to describe people or their relationship to each other.

Usage Examples

• As an adjective:
  • Họ là hai nhà khoa học ngang hàng. (They are two equal scientists.)
  • Anh ấy được đối xử ngang hàng với các giám đốc khác. (He is treated as an equal to the other directors.)
  • Chúng tôi có vị thế ngang hàng trong cuộc đàm phán. (We have equal status in the negotiation.)

Advanced Usage

• Trên tư cách ngang hàng: On an equal footing.
  • Hai công ty hợp tác trên tư cách ngang hàng. (The two companies cooperate on an equal footing.)
• Quan hệ ngang hàng: Peer relationship.
  • Giữa họ là một quan hệ ngang hàng thân thiết. (Between them is a close peer relationship.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bằng hàng (adj, less common): Equal, of the same rank. (A near-synonym, though ngang hàng is more frequently used.)
• Đồng đẳng (adj): Equal, coequal. (Often used in more formal or legal contexts regarding rights and status.)
• Ngang nhau (adj phrase): Equal to each other, on par. (Used to compare levels, degrees, or amounts, e.g., - equal skill level).

Synonyms

• Bình đẳng (adj): Equal (often emphasizing rights and justice).
• Cùng đẳng cấp (adj phrase): Of the same class/caliber.

Related Phrases / Idioms

• Đối xử ngang hàng: To treat as an equal.
  • Người quản lý giỏi biết cách đối xử ngang hàng với mọi nhân viên. (A good manager knows how to treat all employees as equals.)
• Ngang hàng sát phạt (Idiom): To be direct rivals of equal strength; to be well-matched competitors. (Used in competitive contexts like sports or business).
  • Hai đội bóng này thực sự ngang hàng sát phạt. (These two football teams are truly well-matched rivals.)

adj

1. equal, of the same rank