Balance Meaning and Definition
Balance
Pronunciation
/ˈbæləns/
Part of Speech
Noun/Verb
Definition
A balance is a state of equilibrium or stability between different elements, such as physical forces, mental states, or financial accounts.
Examples
1. “She achieved a balance between work and family life.”
2. “He insisted on a balance between spending and saving money.”
Synonyms
1. Equilibrium
2. Harmony
Antonyms
1. Imbalance
2. Inequity
Additional Information
A balance is essential for maintaining health, happiness, and financial stability. In the physical sense, balance is the result of the body’s ability to adapt to changing environments and maintain equilibrium. In a mental sense, balance is the ability to manage emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. In a financial sense, balance refers to the state of having equal amounts of income and expenses.
Balance can be achieved through various means, such as exercise, meditation, and financial planning. It is a state that can be maintained by being mindful of one’s actions and making adjustments as needed.
In many Eastern cultures, balance is considered a key aspect of spiritual and physical well-being. For example, in Buddhism, balance is often associated with the concept of “middle way,” which involves finding a balanced approach to life between extremes.
Balance is also an important concept in business and economics, where it refers to the ability to manage risks and maintain stability in the face of uncertainty.
Overall, balance is a multifaceted concept that plays a crucial role in maintaining health, happiness, and financial stability.
Etymology
The word “balance” comes from the Old French word “balance,” which is derived from the Latin word “bilanx,” meaning “scale.” The concept of balance has been around for thousands of years, with ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks using scales to measure weight and balance.
Usage Notes
The word “balance” can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a state of equilibrium or stability. As a verb, it means to adjust or maintain this state.
In everyday language, “balance” is often used in the context of finance, such as “strike a balance between saving and spending.” It can also be used in the context of mental health, such as “find a balance between work and leisure activities.”
Cultural References
Balance is a recurring theme in literature, art, and popular culture. For example, in the novel “The Balance of Nature” by Barbara Gowdy, the main character struggles to find balance in her life after a traumatic event.
In the film “The Balance” (2016), a musician must find balance between his career and personal life.
Idiomatic Expressions
1. “Find a balance.”
2. “Strike a balance.”
3. “Maintain a balance.”
Collocations
1. “Find a balance between work and leisure.”
2. “Maintain a balance in financial accounts.”
3. “Achieve a balance between physical and mental health.”
Frequency of Use
The word “balance” is a common usage in everyday language, particularly in the contexts of finance, mental health, and personal development.
Common Misspellings
1. “Balence”
2. “Balanse”