balance

[ˈbæləns]

balance Definition

• 1. an even distribution of weight enabling someone or something to remain upright and steady
• 2. a situation in which different elements are equal or in the correct proportions
• 3. the difference between credits and debits in an account

Using balance: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "balance" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  She lost her balance and fell off the bike.

• Example

  The balance of power shifted after the war.

• Example

  I need to check my bank balance before making any purchases.

balance Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for balance

• stability
• equilibrium
• poise
• harmony
• proportion

Antonyms for balance

• imbalance
• instability

Idioms Using balance

• hang in the balance

  to be uncertain or undecided

  Example

  The outcome of the election hangs in the balance.

• throw someone off balance

  to cause someone to become confused or disoriented

  Example

  The unexpected question threw him off balance during the interview.

• redress the balance

  to make a situation fairer or more equal

  Example

  The new policy aims to redress the balance between employers and employees.

Phrases with balance

• strike a balance

  to find a compromise between two things

  Example

  It's important to strike a balance between work and personal life.

• balance of probabilities

  the standard of proof required in most civil cases

  Example

  The judge ruled in favor of the plaintiff on the balance of probabilities.

• balance of nature

  the idea that all living things are interdependent and in harmony with their environment

  Example

  Human activity has disrupted the balance of nature.

Origins of balance

from Old French 'balance' meaning 'scales, balance'

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Summary: balance in Brief

The term 'balance' [ˈbæləns] refers to even distribution of weight, correct proportions, or the difference between credits and debits in an account. It can describe physical stability, as in 'She lost her balance and fell off the bike,' or abstract concepts like 'balance of power.' Phrases like 'strike a balance' and idioms like 'hang in the balance' demonstrate the importance of balance in decision-making and outcomes.