parity - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
parity Word Meanings
- the state of being equal or equivalent
- a quantity that is equal or comparable
- equality in status or amount
parity Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
parity Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpær.ɪ.ti/
US
/ˈpɛr.ɪ.ti/
parity Word Etymology
Root: pari- = equal + -ty = state/condition. Historical origin: from Latin 'paritas' → Old French 'parité' → English. Memory image: Imagine balancing delicate scales to represent equality, where both sides must be perfectly level.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Parity means the state of being equal or equivalent. In mathematics, parity most often refers to whether a number is even or odd, but the term also applies to social or practical contexts where you want equality in status or amount. The root pari- means equal and -ty denotes a state or condition, and the word travels through Latin into French before entering English. Learners can encounter phrases like parity with or parity of and need to distinguish it from general words like balance or equality. Parity emphasizes measurable equality and comparability rather than virtue or justice alone.
Usage Reminders
- Use with parity with or parity of to show a comparison. In math, parity means even or odd, not moral fairness. Don’t confuse parity with general equality or balance. Talk about gender parity, pay parity, or parity of resources to describe equal representation or amount. Parity implies a measurable standard or criteria for equivalence. Practice with real-world examples to see how it shifts in context.
Common Misconceptions
- Parity is only a mathematical concept and has no social meaning
- Parity means perfect equality in every detail
- Parity and balance are interchangeable in everyday speech
- Parity always implies moral justice
- Parity replaces the word 'equal' in all contexts
Thinking Differences
In English, parity is often used in formal contexts and can pair with many nouns (with/of) to show a measured similarity; learners may overextend it to moral judgments or everyday balance.
Learning Tips
- Identify the two core senses: math (even/odd) and social equality.
- Use parity with or parity of to show comparison (parity with a benchmark).
- Differentiate parity from general equality or balance.
- Learn common collocations: gender parity, pay parity, parity of resources.
- Practice real-world contexts to see how meaning shifts.
- Check for exactness: parity implies measurable equivalence.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'parity'?
A.Equality
B.Difference
C.Excess
D.Deficiency
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'parity' used correctly?
A.There was a significant parity in their ages.
B.Their salaries were in parity with each other.
C.The disparity between their skills was evident.
D.She had a parity for making important decisions.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'parity'?
A.Inequality
B.Balance
C.Equilibrium
D.Similarity
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context is 'parity' important?
A.Economic markets
B.Sports competitions
C.Government policies
D.Academic grading
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on the importance of 'parity' in society.
A.Promoting discrimination
B.Encouraging division
C.Creating imbalance
D.Achieving fairness
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