Fifty-Fifty – Meaning and Examples
When chances are equal, costs are shared equally, or responsibilities are divided down the middle, we need a simple way to express this. In English, we use the term fifty-fifty to describe these perfectly equal situations. This idiom is very common in daily decisions and agreements.
What Does “Fifty-Fifty” Mean?
“Fifty-fifty” means divided equally into two halves or having an equal chance of happening. Think of it like splitting a pizza exactly in half with a friend. It describes any situation where something is shared, divided, or has a probability of 50%.
When to Use It
Use this idiom when discussing equal probability or chance. Use it when talking about sharing costs or responsibilities equally. Use it in decisions where two outcomes are equally likely. It is a neutral and informal phrase, perfect for casual conversations and agreements.
Example Sentences
- Let’s split the bill fifty-fifty.
- I’d say it’s fifty-fifty whether it rains this afternoon.
- We share the housework fifty-fifty.
- The doctor said there’s a fifty-fifty chance the treatment will work.
Mini Dialogue
Sarah: “Do you think our team will win the game tomorrow?”
Mike: “It’s fifty-fifty. Both teams are equally strong this season.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember, this idiom specifically means equal division or probability. Don’t use it for things that aren’t split exactly in half.
❌ Don’t say: “We divided the cake fifty-fifty between three people.” (This is mathematically impossible).
✅ Do say: “We divided the profit fifty-fifty between the two partners.”
Practice Tip
Next time you share a meal or cost with one other person, suggest splitting it fifty-fifty. Say “Let’s go fifty-fifty on this” when the check arrives. Using it in a real situation helps you remember it.
Final Note
You now know how to use “fifty-fifty” to describe equal splits, chances, and probabilities. This straightforward phrase will help you discuss sharing and likelihood in everyday situations. Use it whenever something is divided exactly in half or has an equal chance of happening!
