a neat balance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a neat balance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or arrangement that is well-proportioned or harmonious. Example: "The design of the website achieves a neat balance between aesthetics and functionality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Only the tips of four huge coconut shrimp were dipped in real coconut breading, a neat balance that provided satisfying crunch without obscuring the flavor of the shrimp.

The New York Times

Certainly Downey Jr's louche acting style finds a neat balance with Harris, who plays Moriarty as a puckish, dapper Satan, his ratty teeth glinting behind fox-red facial hair.

The Guardian - Film

Shooting on Super-16 (rather than digital), cinematographer Daniel Pearl achieves a neat balance between old-school grain and modern sheen, thankfully eschewing the tedious turd-brown-palette that has become de rigueur.

The Guardian - Film

The villain is the "Mephistophelean mastermind sadist" you'd expect, but one who kept meticulous records -- lots and lots of account applications, trade tickets, loan agreements and incriminating client correspondence to keep March busy and satisfy any reader who appreciates a neat balance sheet.

The New York Times - Books

But over the course of four hilarious series a neat balance is found, as other cartoon-like characters drift in and out, most notably the sexually aggressive walking tribunal that is boss Douglas Reynholm (played to perfection by the superb Matt Berry and Noel Fieldingg's miserable goth Richmond Avenal.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

However, settling into a neat balance between the accuracy of neighbor table and the scheme overhead it is complicated by the fact that VANETs are highly dynamic and mobility restricted.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But in building and sustaining a mood of anger and outrage while delivering enough laughs to keep an audience amused, it carries off a neat balancing act.

The New York Times

The Chilean Supreme Court managed a neat balancing act in the charged issue of whether to prosecute Gen. Augusto Pinochet on kidnapping and murder charges.

The New York Times

When he's mistaken for the brains behind the robbery, the film becomes a neat balancing act between the reality of Van Damme's life and a cops-and-robbers hostage drama.

The New Yorker

But in a neat balancing act, the movie gives Lisa a supportive mother, Janis (Cara Buono), who is almost as annoying with her intrusions as Meenu is with her disapproval.

The New York Times

A neat symmetry there.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a neat balance", consider the context carefully to ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning of equilibrium or harmony. For example, "The recipe achieves "a neat balance" between sweet and savory flavors".

Common error

While "a neat balance" is generally acceptable, it might sound slightly out of place in extremely informal settings. Consider using more casual alternatives like "a good mix" or "a nice blend" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a neat balance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use to describe a harmonious or well-proportioned state, often achieved through careful consideration or skill.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a neat balance" is a noun phrase used to describe a harmonious and well-proportioned state. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it isn't overly frequent, it effectively conveys the idea of equilibrium. Consider alternative phrases like "a fine equilibrium" or "a perfect harmony" for nuanced expression. To prevent overuse in informal settings, opt for alternatives like "a good mix" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fine equilibrium

Emphasizes the state of equilibrium being delicate and well-maintained, differing in word choice.

a perfect harmony

Highlights the harmonious aspect of the balance, focusing on agreement and pleasing arrangement.

an ideal proportion

Stresses the proportional aspect, suggesting a balance achieved through carefully considered ratios.

a skillful coordination

Focuses on the active management required to maintain balance, implying expertise and control.

a delicate compromise

Highlights the element of trade-offs and concessions involved in achieving balance, adding a layer of negotiation.

a precise calibration

Emphasizes the accuracy and meticulousness needed for maintaining the equilibrium, implying a technical adjustment.

an effective synthesis

Suggests the integration of different elements to form a balanced whole, focusing on the combination process.

a well-judged distribution

Highlights the element of evenness and fairness in the distribution, indicating an impartial or equitable arrangement.

a clever juxtaposition

Focuses on the artful placement of contrasting elements to create equilibrium, emphasizing the ingenuity.

an artful blend

Implies skill and creativity in combining elements to achieve a harmonious balance, suggesting aesthetic consideration.

FAQs

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

You can use "a neat balance" to describe situations where elements are well-proportioned or harmoniously combined. For instance, "The film strikes "a neat balance" between action and comedy."

What phrases are similar to "a neat balance"?

Similar phrases include "a fine equilibrium", "a perfect harmony", or "an ideal proportion", each emphasizing different aspects of balance.

Is "a neat balance" formal or informal?

"A neat balance" is generally considered neutral in register and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although slightly leaning towards formal especially in news and media.

What's the difference between "a neat balance" and "a neat balancing act"?

"A neat balance" describes a state of equilibrium, while "a neat balancing act" refers to the action of maintaining that equilibrium, often implying skill or effort.