balanced
She has a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Her eating habits include a variety of healthy foods in proper proportions.
having different elements in the correct or desired proportions
The report provides a balanced view of the company's financial health.
The report presents both positive and negative aspects fairly.
Often used to describe diets, budgets, opinions, or systems where components are proportionate.
mentally and emotionally stable; not excessively emotional
After therapy, he became more balanced and less reactive to stress.
His emotional responses became more controlled and reasonable.
Describes a person's mental state where emotions are under control.
in finance, having assets and liabilities in appropriate proportions to avoid risk
The bank maintained a balanced portfolio to minimize exposure to market fluctuations.
The bank's investments were diversified to reduce financial risk.
Refers to financial stability where investments are appropriately diversified.
Collocations
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'balanced' for physical objects
Use 'level' or 'even' for physical balance (e.g., 'a level table'). Reserve 'balanced' for abstract or metaphorical balance (e.g., 'a balanced life').
Gold Rule
Context determines meaning
In everyday language, 'balanced' often refers to proportions (e.g., diet, budget). In psychology, it describes emotional stability. In finance, it relates to risk management.
Word Origin
From Latin *bilanx* (having two scales), from *bi-* (two) + *lanx* (plate, scale). Entered English in the 16th century via French *balancé*, originally referring to scales with equal weights.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in everyday contexts (e.g., diet, work-life) and technical fields (e.g., finance, psychology). Avoid using for physical objects unless metaphorically (e.g., 'a balanced seesaw' is literal, but 'a balanced argument' is figurative).