a delicate balance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate balance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is generally used to describe a situation in which multiple forces or elements require careful consideration and maintenance in order to work properly. For example, "Maintaining a good working environment requires a delicate balance between providing employees with freedom and setting appropriate boundaries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Name: Brian Sogol Show: A Delicate Balance Reason why: I'm really looking forward to Edward Albee's A Delicate Balance, starring John Lithgow and Glenn Close.

Huffington Post

"It's a delicate balance".

The New York Times

It's a delicate balance, however.

The New Yorker

That is a delicate balance.

The Economist

This is a delicate balance.

The New York Times

"It's a delicate balance," he said.

The New York Times

"There's a delicate balance," Fencik said.

The New York Times

However, regular contact is a delicate balance.

The Guardian

But it is a delicate balance.

The New Yorker

"It becomes a delicate balance.

The New York Times

But it's a delicate balance.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a delicate balance", ensure the context clearly indicates what elements are being balanced and why maintaining that balance is important. Providing specific examples strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the delicacy of the balance to the point where it seems impossible to maintain. While emphasizing the need for care is important, ensure your language doesn't imply inevitable failure or collapse.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate balance" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a situation or state requiring careful management of opposing forces or elements. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in contexts ranging from economics to personal relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delicate balance" is a widely used phrase that aptly describes situations requiring careful management and equilibrium. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently appears in reputable sources across news, science, and business contexts. When using this phrase, clearly articulate the elements being balanced and the importance of maintaining that balance to enhance clarity and impact. While emphasizing care is crucial, avoid exaggerating the fragility of the situation. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively incorporate "a delicate balance" into your writing to convey the need for thoughtful consideration and management in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive equilibrium

Emphasizes the easily disrupted nature of the balance, pointing to an unstable situation.

a fine line

This alternative suggests a very narrow margin for error or success, emphasizing the precision required.

a tricky situation

Highlights the complexity and difficulty in maintaining the balance.

a fragile state

This alternative underscores the vulnerability and susceptibility to disruption.

a precarious situation

This highlights the instability and potential danger if the balance is disrupted.

a careful compromise

Highlights the cautious and thoughtful approach needed to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.

a challenging compromise

Focuses on the need to make concessions to maintain equilibrium, highlighting potential difficulties.

a measured approach

This implies a deliberate and carefully considered method to maintain stability.

a difficult act

Suggests that what it takes to maintain the balance is difficult to do.

a nuanced judgment

Indicates that subtle and finely tuned assessments are necessary.

FAQs

How can I use "a delicate balance" in a sentence?

You can use "a delicate balance" to describe situations where multiple factors need to be carefully managed to achieve a desired outcome. For example, "Maintaining economic stability requires "a delicate balance" between controlling inflation and stimulating growth."

What are some synonyms for "a delicate balance"?

Alternatives to "a delicate balance" include "a fine line", "a precarious situation", or "a sensitive equilibrium" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a delicate balancing act" instead of "a delicate balance"?

While both phrases are acceptable, "a delicate balancing act" implies an ongoing effort to maintain equilibrium, whereas "a delicate balance" can refer to a state of equilibrium that needs to be preserved. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the process or the state.

What's the difference between "a delicate balance" and "a fragile balance"?

"A fragile balance" emphasizes the ease with which the balance can be disrupted, highlighting its vulnerability. "A delicate balance", on the other hand, focuses more on the care and precision required to maintain the equilibrium, though fragility is often implied.