Looking up...
balanced
/ˈbælənst/
in a state of equilibrium
She has a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Her eating habits include a variety of healthy foods in proper proportions.
general
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.
psychology
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.
Finance
formal
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
balanced dieta diet containing the right types and amounts of foodbalanced budgeta financial plan where income equals or exceeds expensesemotionally balancedmentally stable and able to handle emotions wellbalanced approacha fair and reasonable method that considers all sides
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).
Word Breakdown
balance
equilibrium or stability
root-ed
adjective-forming suffix indicating 'having the quality of'
suffixEnglish Dictionary