What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
counterbalance
Example
The heavy weight on the other side of the scale acted as a counterbalance. [counterbalance: noun]
Example
The increased spending was counterbalanced by decreased taxes. [counterbalanced: verb]
counterweight
Example
The counterweight on the elevator kept it from falling too quickly. [counterweight: noun]
Example
The opposition party served as a counterweight to the ruling party's policies. [counterweight: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Counterweight is more commonly used than counterbalance in everyday language. Counterweight is a more general term that can be used in various contexts, while counterbalance is more technical and specific.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between counterbalance and counterweight?
Both counterbalance and counterweight are formal words that are typically used in technical or specialized contexts, such as engineering or physics.
