The phrase "like quantities" functions as a noun phrase.
/lʌɪk ˈkwɒntɪtiz/
"Like quantities" refers to amounts or measurements that are of the same kind or category, allowing for comparison or combination. This term is frequently used in mathematical, scientific, and formal contexts. It is more common in written English, particularly in academic texts or discussions involving mathematics, science, economics, or finance.
The mathematician explained that you can only add like quantities to obtain a correct total.
El matemático explicó que solo puedes sumar cantidades iguales para obtener un total correcto.
In chemistry, it is essential to mix like quantities of reactants to ensure a proper reaction.
En química, es esencial mezclar cantidades iguales de reactivos para asegurar una reacción adecuada.
The accountant reminded the staff to be cautious when dealing with like quantities in the financial report.
El contador recordó al personal que debe tener cuidado al manejar cantidades iguales en el informe financiero.
While "like quantities" itself is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions, it can often appear in contexts that emphasize the concept of equality or similarity. Here are some related idiomatic expressions:
Like trying to compare apples and oranges
It's like trying to compare apples and oranges when you're discussing like quantities in different categories.
Es como intentar comparar manzanas y naranjas cuando se habla de cantidades iguales en diferentes categorías.
Great minds think alike
Ensure everyone understands the importance of treating like quantities similarly—great minds think alike!
Asegúrate de que todos comprendan la importancia de tratar las cantidades iguales de manera similar: ¡los grandes pensadores piensan igual!
Birds of a feather flock together
In the world of economics, like quantities often attract different investors; birds of a feather flock together.
En el mundo de la economía, las cantidades iguales a menudo atraen a diferentes inversores; los pájaros de una misma pluma se juntan.
Actions speak louder than words
When evaluating like quantities, actions speak louder than words; one must show consistency in measurement.
Al evaluar cantidades iguales, las acciones hablan más que las palabras; uno debe mostrar consistencia en la medición.
The term "like" originates from the Old English "lic," meaning "similar," while "quantity" comes from the Latin "quantitas," which denotes "how much" or "amount." The combination thus emphasizes similarity in amounts or measurements.