Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Being in a state of proper equilibrium: Having the right or appropriate proportions, distribution, or combination of elements so that no single part is overemphasized or deficient.
   • Characterized by good judgment and fairness: Showing a fair and sensible consideration of all aspects of a situation.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • The carefully balanced seesaw remained level.
  • The chef created a balanced sauce with sweet, sour, and salty notes.
  • She maintains a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
  • The journalist provided a balanced report on the controversial issue.

Advanced Usage

• "a balanced budget": A budget in which revenues are equal to or greater than expenditures.

  • The government's goal is to achieve a balanced budget this fiscal year.

• "a balanced life": A lifestyle that gives appropriate time and attention to different areas such as work, family, and leisure.

  • He strives for a balanced life, making time for exercise and hobbies.

• "a balanced view/opinion": A perspective that considers and weighs all sides of an argument.

  • The committee sought a balanced view before making its recommendation.

Variants and Related Words

• Balance (noun/verb): The state of equilibrium or the act of keeping something in equilibrium.

  • She lost her balance on the icy path. (noun)
  • You must balance your work and personal life. (verb)

• Unbalanced (adjective): Not in a state of equilibrium; not fair or impartial.

  • The distribution of resources was unbalanced.
  • The article presented an unbalanced critique.

• Well-balanced (adjective): Functioning in a stable, harmonious, and effective way.

  • He is a well-balanced individual.
  • A well-balanced meal.

Synonyms

• Equitable: Characterized by fairness and justice.
• Proportionate: Corresponding in size, degree, or intensity.
• Stable: Not likely to change, give way, or overturn.
• Judicious: Having, showing, or done with good judgment or sense.

Antonyms

• Unbalanced: Not keeping or showing an even balance; not evenly distributed.
• Biased: Unfairly prejudiced for or against someone or something.
• Lopsided: With one side lower or smaller than the other; uneven.

Related Phrases

• Strike a balance: To find a reasonable middle ground between two extremes.

  • We need to strike a balance between cost and quality.

• Off balance: In an unsteady position; unprepared or surprised.

  • The sudden question caught him off balance.

• In the balance: In an uncertain or undecided state.

  • The future of the project hung in the balance.

Adjective

1. being in a state of proper equilibrium
   • the carefully balanced seesaw
   • a properly balanced symphony orchestra
   • a balanced assessment of intellectual and cultural history
   • a balanced blend of whiskeys
   • the educated man shows a balanced development of all his powers