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tantamount

adjective

/ˈtantəmaʊnt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of tantamount

Equivalent in value, significance, or effect to something else, often implying the same or indistinguishable outcome or consequence.
"The government's failure to act on the crisis was tantamount to neglect."

Detailed meaning of tantamount

The adjective "tantamount" is used to convey that one thing is essentially equivalent or equal in effect, significance, or importance to another. When two things are described as "tantamount," it implies that they are so closely similar or alike that they can be considered nearly identical in their consequences or outcomes. This term underscores the idea that the differences between the two are negligible, and the impact or result of both is essentially the same. For example, if someone says that a particular action is tantamount to admitting guilt, they are suggesting that taking that action is essentially the same as confessing to wrongdoing, with little to no distinction in terms of its implications. In summary, "tantamount" signifies a high degree of equivalence or similarity, often used to emphasize the gravity or seriousness of a situation or comparison.

Example sentences containing tantamount

1. His silence was tantamount to admitting guilt.
2. In our eyes, their achievement is tantamount to success.
3. Losing the key is tantamount to locking yourself out.
4. The decision to invest is tantamount to financial growth.
5. Breaking that rule is tantamount to risking your safety.
6. Her resignation is tantamount to the end of an era.

History and etymology of tantamount

The adjective 'tantamount' has a fascinating etymology that can be traced back to the Anglo-Norman French term 'tant amunter,' which means 'to amount to as much.' The first part, 'tant,' derives from Old French and means 'so much,' while 'amunter' is rooted in Latin 'ad montem,' which translates to 'to the mountain.' This seemingly unrelated reference to a mountain in its etymology is intriguing. It suggests the idea that something is as high or significant as a metaphorical mountain, emphasizing its importance or equivalence. Therefore, the term 'tantamount' has evolved to convey the concept of being equivalent in value, significance, or effect to something else, often implying the same or indistinguishable outcome or consequence, as if it stands as high and important as a mountain in terms of its impact.

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Further usage examples of tantamount

1. The CEO's approval is tantamount to project greenlighting.
2. The discovery of a vaccine is tantamount to a medical breakthrough.
3. Ignoring the issue is tantamount to neglecting your responsibilities.
4. Trust in a relationship is tantamount to a strong foundation.
5. Losing the game is tantamount to disappointment.
6. Honesty in journalism is tantamount to credibility.
7. Effective communication is tantamount to resolving conflicts.
8. The teacher's guidance is tantamount to academic success.
9. To him, a handshake is tantamount to a promise.
10. Respect for others is tantamount to being a good person.
11. The chef's secret ingredient is tantamount to exquisite flavor.
12. Trusting your intuition is tantamount to making wise choices.
13. A leader's integrity is tantamount to gaining followers' trust.
14. In politics, timing is tantamount to success.
15. His refusal to cooperate was tantamount to sabotage.
16. Her lack of effort was tantamount to neglect of duty.
17. The company's decision to cut benefits was tantamount to a betrayal of its employees.
18. The team's lack of preparation was tantamount to defeat before the game even started.
19. His attitude of apathy was tantamount to a lack of commitment.
20. The company's disregard for safety regulations was tantamount to negligence.
21. The politician's refusal to listen to the electorate was tantamount to disrespect.
22. The employee's dishonesty was tantamount to a breach of trust.
23. The company's decision to outsource jobs was tantamount to abandonment of the community.
24. The company's lack of transparency was tantamount to a lack of accountability.
25. The team's lack of teamwork was tantamount to a lack of cohesiveness.