"On all fours with" is a colloquial expression that describes a situation where two or more things or entities share certain similarities or characteristics, implying that they are on the same level or in a similar position.
The phrase "on all fours" originates from the image of an animal (typically a quadruped) standing or moving with all four limbs touching the ground simultaneously. When used metaphorically, it refers to a state of equality or comparison, suggesting that the objects or entities being compared are in a similar state or condition.
In this context, "with" is used to emphasize the accompanying nature of the comparison. It indicates that the two things being compared are alike or resemble each other in a particular regard, aligning them side by side in terms of features, qualities, or characteristics.
For instance, if someone says, "The new smartphone is on all fours with its competitors," they mean that the new device possesses similar qualities, features, or standards as its rival smartphones, implying that it is comparable and competitive on the market.
Overall, "on all fours with" is an idiomatic expression that denotes a comparative state or condition where two or more objects, entities, or ideas resemble each other and are considered equivalent or similar in a particular aspect.
