The phrase "were on a par with" is commonly used to describe things or people that are equal in quality or ability. The word "par" is spelled with the letters "p," "a," and "r," and is pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription /pɑːr/. Note that the "a" is pronounced with the long "ah" sound as in "father." When used in conjunction with "on a," the phrase is pronounced /wɜːr ɑn ə pɑːr wɪð/. The word "were" is pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription /wɜːr/ and is the past tense form of "are."
"were on a par with" is an idiomatic expression that means to be equal or comparable in quality, standard, or level to something or someone else. When two or more things are on a par with each other, they are considered to be at the same level of excellence, skill, or achievement.
This phrase is often used to compare the performance, abilities, or worth of individuals, teams, or objects. It implies that there is little to no difference between them and suggests that they are equivalent in terms of their respective qualities or attributes. For example, if you say that two athletes' performances were on a par with each other, you are saying that the level of skill and ability displayed by both athletes was equal.
The expression "were on a par with" can also be used to compare the value or importance of different things or concepts. In this context, it indicates that the status, significance, or impact of two or more things are equivalent or nearly equal. For instance, if you say that the achievements of two scientists are on a par with each other, you are saying that their contributions to their respective fields are of similar value or impact.
Overall, "were on a par with" is a phrase used to emphasize the similarity, equality, or comparable nature between two or more things, whether it be in terms of quality, standard, achievements, or value.