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a lack of proportion or symmetry between different parts or elements
The country faces a severe trade imbalance.
The country imports much more than it exports, creating a trade deficit.
Social media can create an imbalance in mental health.
Excessive social media use can negatively affect mental well-being.
Often used in economic, social, or physical contexts.
Do not confuse 'imbalance' with 'unbalance'—'imbalance' is the standard term in formal contexts.
Use for significant or problematic lack of balance, especially in systems, economies, or health.
From Latin 'im-' (not) + 'bilanx' (having two scales), literally 'not having equal weight'. First recorded in English in the 17th century.
Common in academic, economic, and psychological contexts. Avoid using for minor differences; implies a significant or problematic lack of balance.