Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Mentally and emotionally stable; sensible and reasonable: Describes a person who is free from psychological disorder, showing good judgment and emotional control.
   • Correctly balanced, proportionate, or in a state of equilibrium: Describes something that has its elements arranged in the correct or desired proportions, or is physically stable.

Usage

• The primary use of "well-balanced" is as an adjective to describe either a person's stable character or the harmonious, stable nature of an object, diet, or argument.
• It typically precedes a noun (e.g., a well-balanced individual) or follows a linking verb like "is" or "seems" (e.g., The diet is well-balanced).

Examples

• Describing a person's character:
  • She is a well-balanced person who handles stress with remarkable calm.
  • The interview panel is looking for emotionally well-balanced candidates.
• Describing physical or compositional balance:
  • A well-balanced wheel ensures a smooth ride.
  • It is important to eat a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
  • The report presented a well-balanced analysis of the advantages and disadvantages.

Advanced Usage

• "Well-balanced" can be used in more abstract contexts to describe things that are fair and consider all sides.
  • The committee strives to achieve a well-balanced representation of all community groups.
  • The article was praised for its well-balanced viewpoint on the controversial issue.

Variants and Related Words

• Well-adjusted (adj): Similar to "well-balanced" when describing a person's psychological state; emotionally stable and able to cope with life.
  • He is a well-adjusted child who gets along with everyone.
• Balanced (adj): The root adjective, meaning being in a state of equilibrium or having different elements in the correct proportions. "Well-balanced" often emphasizes a or state of balance.
  • The gymnast maintained a balanced pose. (This describes the state)
  • She leads a balanced life between work and family. (This describes proportion)

Synonyms

• Sensible: Having or showing good judgment.
• Stable: Not easily upset or disturbed; steady.
• Equitable: Fair and impartial (when referring to treatment or judgment).
• Proportionate: Corresponding in size or amount to something else.

Antonyms

• Unbalanced: Not balanced, emotionally unstable, or biased.
• Extreme: Reaching a high or the highest degree; very great. (e.g., extreme views)
• Biased: Unfairly prejudiced for or against someone or something.

Related Phrases

• A well-balanced meal: A meal containing a healthy variety of different types of food in appropriate amounts.
• A well-balanced life: A lifestyle that healthily allocates time and energy to work, leisure, family, etc.

Adjective

1. free from psychological disorder
   • a well-adjusted personality
2. in an optimal state of balance or equilibrium
   • a well-balanced wheel