What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
countervail
Example
The company implemented measures to countervail the negative effects of the new regulations. [countervail: verb]
Example
The benefits of the new policy countervailed the drawbacks. [countervailing: gerund or present participle]
counterbalance
Example
The counterbalance on the crane kept it stable while lifting heavy loads. [counterbalance: noun]
Example
The positive aspects of the job counterbalanced the long hours and low pay. [counterbalance: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Counterbalance is more commonly used than countervail in everyday language. Counterbalance is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while countervail is less common and more likely to be used in formal or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between countervail and counterbalance?
Countervail is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, while counterbalance is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
