balance

/ˈbæləns/
equilibrium or equal distribution

She maintained a balance between work and personal life.

She managed to keep an equal distribution of time and energy between her job and personal activities.


general

A state of equilibrium or equal distribution of weight, influence, or importance.

The seesaw was in perfect balance when both children sat on it.

The seesaw was perfectly level when both children were sitting on it.

The company aims to achieve a balance between profit and social responsibility.

The company strives to maintain an equal focus on making money and being socially responsible.

Can refer to physical balance (e.g., scales), financial balance (e.g., checking account), or abstract balance (e.g., work-life balance).

Finance
Finance

The amount of money in a financial account.

I checked my bank balance before making a purchase.

I reviewed the amount of money in my bank account before buying something.

Often used in the context of banking and personal finance.

physical

The ability to maintain stability and control while moving or standing.

The gymnast demonstrated excellent balance during her routine.

The gymnast showed great stability and control during her performance.

Common in sports, yoga, and physical therapy contexts.

Collocations

balance of powerthe distribution of influence among groups or nationsbalance sheeta financial statement showing assets, liabilities, and equitylose balanceto become unsteady or fall

Related Phrases

on balancephrase
considering all factors
tipping the balancephrase
to cause a decisive change

Pro Tip

Financial Balance

When referring to money, 'balance' is often used with prepositions like 'check my balance' or 'deposit into my balance.'

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The meaning of 'balance' varies significantly depending on whether it is used in a physical, financial, or abstract sense.

Word Origin

From Old French 'balance,' from Latin 'bilanx' (two scales), from 'bi-' (two) + 'lanx' (scale).

Usage Notes

In financial contexts, 'balance' often refers to the remaining amount in an account. In physical contexts, it refers to stability or equilibrium.

Word Breakdown

bal-
to weigh or measure
root
+
-ance
state or condition
suffix
English Dictionary