What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
equipoised
Example
The debate was equipoised, with both sides presenting strong arguments. [equipoised: adjective]
Example
The scales were perfectly equipoised, indicating a balanced distribution of weight. [equipoised: verb]
poised
Example
She was poised to take on the new challenge with enthusiasm. [poised: adjective]
Example
He remained poised and collected during the high-pressure situation. [poised: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Poised is more commonly used than equipoised in everyday language. Poised is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while equipoised is less common and has a more specific technical usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between equipoised and poised?
Equipoised is typically associated with a more formal tone due to its technical connotation, while poised can be used in both formal and informal contexts.