What does tantamount mean?
Tantamount is an adjective that means equivalent in effect or value. It is often used to convey a sense of similarity or equivalence, but it can also imply a sense of inferiority or compromise. In formal or technical contexts, tantamount is used to describe a situation or decision that has the same significance or importance as another. For example, a company's decision to withdraw from the market may be tantamount to bankruptcy. In informal contexts, tantamount is used to describe a situation or decision that is similar or comparable to another. For example, a politician's promise to reduce taxes may be tantamount to a guarantee. Overall, tantamount is a useful word for describing situations or decisions that have significant implications or consequences.
adjectiveEquivalent in effect or value; having the same significance or importance.
- Equivalent in effect or value; having the same significance or importance.
"The company's decision to withdraw from the market was tantamount to bankruptcy."
"The company's decision to withdraw from the market was tantamount to bankruptcy."
"The politician's promise to reduce taxes was tantamount to a guarantee."
Tantamounts is used to describe multiple situations or decisions that have the same significance or importance.
"The company's decision to withdraw from the market was tantamount to bankruptcy, and the loss of revenue was tantamount to a financial disaster."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of tantamount
Tantamount comes from the Old French word 'tant mount', which means 'so much as'. It is derived from the Latin words 'tantum' (so much) and 'montare' (to mount).
Usage notes
Tantamount is often used to convey a sense of equivalence or similarity, but it can also imply a sense of inferiority or compromise.