not equal to

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrasemathematics

   Showing that two quantities or values are not the same.

   Grammar: Used after a subject and often with is: five is not equal to six.

   Patterns

   • something is not equal to something

   Seven is not equal to eight, so the statement is false.

   In the code, the program stops when the answer is not equal to zero.

   The two sides of the scale are not equal to each other, so it tips.

2. 2phrasefixed phrase

   Not matching something in size, quality or importance.

   Grammar: Used more loosely in speech: the reward is not equal to the effort.

   Patterns

   • not equal to the task

   His small salary was not equal to the long hours he worked.

   The team's skill was not equal to the challenge of the final.

   The number of seats is not equal to the number of guests.

Common combinations

is not equal to

The total is not equal to the sum of the parts.

not equal to zero

The divisor must be not equal to zero.

if x is not equal to y

If x is not equal to y, the loop continues.

not equal in value

The two coins are not equal in value.

Synonyms and how they differ

different from

Different from is the plain everyday wording, while not equal to is more exact and used with numbers.

unequal

Unequal is a single adjective that can also mean unfair, as in unequal treatment.

unlike

Unlike describes lack of similarity in general, not a matching of exact value.

Opposites

Word family

equal adjective

the same in amount or value

equality noun

the state of being equal

equate verb

to treat as the same

unequal adjective

not the same in amount or fairness

Commonly confused: not equal to or not equal?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “not equal to”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

Explore more words