a delicate balance between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate balance between" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need to maintain equilibrium or harmony between two or more contrasting elements or factors. Example: "In managing a team, there is often a delicate balance between fostering creativity and ensuring productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a delicate balance between cleaning it and harming it.

The New York Times

There is a delicate balance between access and accountability.

The New Yorker

There is a delicate balance between efficacy and toxicity.

Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews

Hers is a delicate balance between being and non-being.

Independent

He hopes to find a delicate balance between effective internet governance and internet freedom and justice.

Harvard University

Brett Christophers argues that capitalism requires a delicate balance between competition and monopoly.

Harvard University

The assembly and maturation of neural circuits require a delicate balance between synapse formation and elimination.

Stanford University

Control of cell survival relies on a delicate balance between pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic signalling.

Harvard University

In practice, the power of human cooperation depends on a delicate balance between truth and fiction.

The Guardian

The United States, in Jefferson's view, was a delicate balance between public order and private initiative.

The New York Times - Books

Publicly these actresses maintained a delicate balance between scandal and propriety.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a delicate balance between", clearly identify the two elements being balanced to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "a delicate balance between freedom and security" rather than just "a delicate balance".

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate balance between" as a vague statement without specifying the elements being balanced. Instead of saying "We need a delicate balance", clarify "We need "a delicate balance between" cost and quality".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate balance between" functions as a noun phrase that introduces the idea of equilibrium or mediation. It sets the stage for specifying two or more elements that require careful management to achieve harmony or optimal results, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

38%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delicate balance between" is a commonly used phrase to emphasize the need for careful management of opposing forces or elements to achieve an optimal state. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academia. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly specify the elements being balanced to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include "a fine balance between" and "striking a balance between", offering nuanced variations in meaning. By understanding its function and potential pitfalls, you can effectively incorporate "a delicate balance between" into your writing to convey the importance of equilibrium and thoughtful consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a subtle balance between

Emphasizes a less obvious or easily perceived equilibrium.

a fine balance between

Highlights the precision and care required to maintain the equilibrium.

a precarious balance between

Suggests the equilibrium is unstable and easily disrupted.

a tricky balance between

Highlights the difficulty in achieving and maintaining equilibrium.

a difficult balance between

Similar to 'tricky', but focuses on the effort required.

a fragile balance between

Emphasizes the vulnerability of the equilibrium.

a careful equilibrium between

Implies a deliberate and thoughtful maintenance of balance.

striking a balance between

Focuses on the action of achieving equilibrium.

navigating the tension between

Highlights the active management of opposing forces.

finding the middle ground between

Suggests a compromise or reconciliation of differences.

FAQs

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

Use "a delicate balance between" to describe the need to carefully manage two opposing forces or ideas. For example: "Maintaining "a delicate balance between" tradition and innovation is crucial for the company's success".

What phrases are similar to "a delicate balance between"?

You can use alternatives like "a fine balance between", "a subtle balance between", or "striking a balance between" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a delicate balance between"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the need for careful management and equilibrium between two distinct or opposing elements. Avoid using it when the relationship isn't truly about balancing opposing forces.

Is there a difference between "a delicate balance between" and "a precarious balance between"?

"A delicate balance between" suggests a need for careful management, while "a precarious balance between" implies that the balance is unstable and easily disrupted. The latter emphasizes vulnerability.