tantamount etymology

Etymology

The word "tantamount" originates from the Middle French "tant amont" (of equivalent value), which in turn comes from the Latin "tantus" (so great) and "admodum" (very much).

Meaning and Origin

"Tantamount" means "equivalent in value, significance, or effect." It is often used to emphasize that something is essentially the same as something else, even though they may appear different or have different names.

The concept of "tantamount" has been used for centuries, with its earliest known usage dating back to the 14th century. It was initially employed in legal and financial contexts to describe the equivalence of different forms of currency or assets.

Over time, the meaning of "tantamount" broadened to encompass equivalence in any area, including power, authority, or influence. It is now commonly used in both formal and informal settings to convey the idea that two things are essentially the same.

Examples

  • The new proposal is tantamount to an admission of guilt.
  • The candidate's speech was tantamount to a declaration of war.
  • The loss of the key was tantamount to losing the house.

tantamount relate terms

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  • tandem

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  • equivalent

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  • bless

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  • habit

    Etymology The word habit comes from the Old French word abit which is ultimately d

  • rendezvous

    Etymology and Origin of Rendezvous French Rendez vous meaning to go back to a place

  • onomatopoeia

    Etymology Greek onomatopoiia from onoma onomatos name poiein to make Mea

  • Rubicon

    Etymology The word Rubicon is derived from the Latin phrase rubico flumine which mea

  • mantle

    Etymology The word mantle derives from the Middle English term mantel which origina

  • virtual

    Virtual Etymology Meaning The tendency of words to take on a meaning that aligns with t

  • asparagus

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