jämnlik

Jämnlik is a Swedish adjective meaning on an even footing or equal in status, strength, or value. The term is formed from jämn (even) and lik (similar) and denotes that two or more things are on a comparable level. Jämnlik is relatively rare in contemporary Swedish and is typically found in formal, scholarly, or literary contexts. In everyday language, jämlik and likvärdig are more common when describing social equality or parity of value.

Usage and nuance: jämnlik can describe parity in various aspects, such as power, capability, or position, rather than rights or social standing. It emphasizes a balance or similarity in level between the compared parties. For example, two competitors can be described as jämnlik in strength, indicating an even matchup.

Relation to other terms: jämlikhet refers to social equality or equal rights, while likvärdighet conveys comparable value or quality. Jämnlik is closer in meaning to parity or balance in a non-social sense and is often favored in analytical or descriptive contexts rather than normative judgments about fairness.

History and register: the word is recognized in Swedish dictionaries but is seldom used in modern everyday language. It appears more often in older texts or in discussions about balance, parity, or comparative analysis.

See also: jämlik, jämlikhet, likvärdighet.