a question of balance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question of balance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need to find a compromise or equilibrium between two or more competing factors or considerations. Example: "In managing a successful project, it's often a question of balance between time, cost, and quality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Lifestyle

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

It's a question of balance.

The New York Times - Food

Aesthetically, it's often a question of balance.

The New York Times - Style

For parents, it's a question of balance.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's all a question of balance.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Neurophysiological mechanisms of sleep and wakefulness: a question of balance.

Harvard University

That essentially comes to down to a question of balance.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

But it's still a question of balancing immediate gratification and larger life lessons.

The New York Times

"A question of balancing it all out or making it darker or... .. Anyway, she just knows.

The Guardian - Arts

"This really is a question of balancing price discounts, losses and prices with what is in the best interest of the community".

The New York Times

"It's always a question of balancing our need for revenue and our stewardship of public space," said Jeremy Soffin, a spokesman for the agency.

The New York Times

For Watkins it wasn't so much a question of balancing her career and her family as of the two colliding.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a question of balance", ensure that the elements being balanced are clearly identified to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid presenting situations requiring "a question of balance" as easily resolvable; acknowledge the complexity and potential trade-offs involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a question of balance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a situation or issue that requires careful consideration of opposing forces or elements. Ludwig provides several examples illustrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

12%

Lifestyle

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a question of balance" is a commonly used phrase to describe situations requiring careful consideration and compromise between competing factors. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in neutral to professional contexts, especially in news and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure the elements being balanced are clearly defined, and acknowledge the complexities involved. Alternatives like "a matter of equilibrium" or "an issue of proportion" can be used to add variety to your writing. Ultimately, understanding and effectively using this phrase can enhance the clarity and sophistication of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of equilibrium

Replaces "question" with "matter", emphasizing the state of balance rather than the inquiry.

an issue of proportion

Focuses on the relative size or extent of different elements contributing to balance.

a problem of equilibrium

Substitutes 'question' with 'problem', highlighting the difficulty in achieving balance.

a challenge of harmonization

Emphasizes the act of bringing different elements into agreement or balance.

finding the golden mean

Implies seeking a middle ground between two extremes.

striking a chord

Focuses on the act of creating stability by adjusting different factors.

achieving parity

Highlights the goal of equality or equivalence between different aspects.

maintaining equilibrium

Shifts the focus to the ongoing effort required to keep things in balance.

the search for equilibrium

Underscores the active process of trying to reach a stable state.

a trade-off

Highlights the need to accept compromises in order to achieve a satisfactory outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "a question of balance" in a sentence?

Use "a question of balance" to describe situations where finding equilibrium or making trade-offs between different factors is necessary. For example, "Successfully managing a project is often "a question of balance" between time, cost, and quality."

What phrases are similar to "a question of balance"?

Similar phrases include "a matter of equilibrium", "an issue of proportion", or "finding the golden mean", depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a question of balance"?

While generally appropriate, consider whether the situation truly involves balancing competing factors. Sometimes, one factor may be more important than others, making a different phrase more suitable.

What's the difference between "a question of balance" and "a question of priorities"?

"A question of balance" implies finding equilibrium between multiple elements. "A question of priorities" suggests determining which element is most important, even if others are neglected.