ceteris paribus

Meaning

1. 1phrasefixed phraseformal

   Used to say that a statement holds true only if all other relevant factors stay unchanged.

   Grammar: Usually placed at the start of a claim: ceteris paribus, higher prices reduce demand.

   Patterns

   • ceteris paribus, something happens

   Ceteris paribus, a rise in interest rates reduces borrowing.

   The model predicts, ceteris paribus, that more study leads to better grades.

   Ceteris paribus, a smaller class size should improve learning.

Common combinations

ceteris paribus assumption

The ceteris paribus assumption simplifies the model by freezing other variables.

ceteris paribus condition

The result only holds under a ceteris paribus condition.

assume ceteris paribus

Economists often assume ceteris paribus when studying prices.

all else being equal

All else being equal, I would choose the cheaper option.

Synonyms and how they differ

all else being equal

This is the plain-English version and is suitable for general readers, while ceteris paribus is more formal and typical of economics.

other things equal

It is a shorter English version with the same meaning but a less academic feel.

in isolation

In isolation means considered by itself, which is close, but ceteris paribus specifically freezes other factors in a comparison.

Word family

ceteris adverb

Latin for the other things, rarely used on its own

et cetera phrase

and the rest, a related Latin phrase

par noun

equal standing, related to the Latin paribus

Commonly confused: ceteris paribus or et cetera?

Practice

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