balance of power
Noun: 1. An equilibrium of power between nations: A state or situation in international relations where power is distributed among nations or alliances in such a way that no single nation or bloc is strong enough to dominate the others. This equilibrium is often seen as a stabilizing factor, preventing any one entity from becoming hegemonic.
The term is used primarily in political science, international relations, and historical discourse to describe the strategic distribution of military, economic, and political influence among states. - It functions as a singular noun phrase. - It is often preceded by the definite article "the" when referring to a specific, known equilibrium (e.g., "the European balance of power"). - It can be the subject or object of a sentence.
- The balance of power in Europe shifted dramatically after the Napoleonic Wars.
- Diplomats worked tirelessly to maintain a fragile balance of power during the Cold War.
- A key goal of the treaty was to establish a new balance of power in the region.
- The theory of the balance of power suggests that states will form alliances to counter any rising threat.
- "To upset/alter/shift the balance of power": To cause a significant change in the existing equilibrium.
- The annexation of territory threatened to upset the delicate balance of power.
- "To preserve/maintain/uphold the balance of power": To act to keep the existing equilibrium stable.
- The alliance was formed to preserve the balance of power against an expansionist empire.
- Balance (noun): A state of equilibrium or stability. In this context, it specifically refers to the equilibrium of forces.
- Power politics (noun): Political action based on the pursuit of power, often involving the manipulation of a balance of power.
- Power vacuum (noun): A condition that exists when power is in a state of flux and the balance of power is unstable or absent.
- Equilibrium of power
- Power equilibrium
- Strategic parity (in specific contexts like nuclear deterrence)
- Realpolitik: A system of politics based on practical and material factors, rather than ideological or ethical considerations, often concerned with maintaining or adjusting a balance of power.
- Deterrence: A strategy intended to dissuade an adversary from taking an action by threatening severe consequences, often underpinned by a balance of power.
- Sphere of influence: A territorial area over which a state or organization has significant cultural, economic, military, or political influence, contributing to an overall balance of power.
- an equilibrium of power between nations