B1noun1K

Balance

UK /["/ˈbæləns/"]/US /["/ˈbæləns/"]/

Definition

a situation in which different things exist in equal, correct or good amounts

In simple words: To make things even or equal.

Examples

  • She found it difficult to maintain her balance while walking on the tightrope.
  • A healthy work-life balance is essential for personal happiness.
  • The accountant helped us achieve balance in our budget for the year.
  • Yoga can improve your balance and flexibility.
  • He tried to balance the demands of school and a part-time job.

Usage notes

Use 'balance' when discussing equal distribution of weight or resources. It's appropriate in both formal and informal settings, but can sound awkward in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

balance + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'scale' balancing two weights.

Collocations

  • changing
  • shifting
  • military
  • affect
  • change
  • shift
  • change
  • shift
  • swing
  • the balance of advantage
  • the balance of forces
  • the balance of power
  • excellent
  • good
  • poor
  • have
  • affect
  • improve
  • beam
  • off balance
  • a sense of balance
  • account
  • bank
  • cash
  • have
  • ask for
  • request
  • the balance of payments
  • the balance of trade
  • account
  • bank
  • cash
  • have
  • ask for
  • request
  • the balance of payments
  • the balance of trade

Synonyms

  • equilibrium
  • stability
  • poise
  • harmony
  • symmetry

Antonyms

  • imbalance
  • disparity

Common mistakes

  • 'Balancing' used incorrectly as a noun instead of a verb.
  • Mixing up 'balance' with 'equilibrium'.
  • Saying 'balance of' instead of 'balance in'.