a tricky balance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a tricky balance' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase in a sentence when referring to a difficult situation which requires careful calibration. For example, "Maintaining a tricky balance between work and home-life is a challenge for many people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

This is a tricky balance.

The New York Times

There is a tricky balance, however.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is a tricky balance to strike.

The Economist

It is a tricky balance to maintain.

The Economist

It is, of course, a tricky balance.

The New York Times

That can be a tricky balance to strike.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

But he faces a tricky balancing act.

The Economist

This presents a tricky balancing act.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a tricky balancing act.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a tricky balancing act.

The New York Times

They have been frightened into a tricky balancing act.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tricky balance", clearly identify the elements that are being balanced. This provides context and highlights the complexity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the 'trickiness' of the balance if the situation is relatively straightforward. Overusing strong adjectives can dilute their impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tricky balance" functions as a noun phrase that describes a state or situation requiring careful management due to conflicting or competing elements. It highlights the need for finesse and consideration to avoid negative consequences, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tricky balance" is a commonly used phrase that describes a situation requiring careful management due to conflicting elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When employing this phrase, it's essential to identify the specific elements being balanced to provide clarity. Remember that while this phrase accurately portrays complexity, avoid overstating the difficulty. Related phrases like "a delicate equilibrium" offer alternative ways to express this concept. By understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, writers can effectively convey the complexities of situations requiring careful consideration and finesse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delicate equilibrium

Emphasizes the fragility and precision required in maintaining the balance.

a precarious compromise

Highlights the potential instability and need for agreement in the situation.

a fine line to walk

Focuses on the narrow margin for error and the need for careful navigation.

a challenging act

Underscores the difficulty and effort involved in maintaining stability.

a difficult trade-off

Emphasizes the need to weigh competing factors and make a hard choice.

a subtle distinction

Highlights the nuanced nature of the distinction.

a complex negotiation

Implies a complicated process of give and take.

a demanding compromise

Highlights the difficult act of finding a compromise

a sensitive matter

Indicates the subject requires a lot of careful attention and thinking.

a delicate situation

Underlines the need for mindful action in the described event.

FAQs

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

Use "a tricky balance" when you want to describe a situation that requires careful and nuanced handling to avoid negative consequences. For example, "Maintaining "a tricky balance between" economic growth and environmental protection is crucial for sustainable development".

What are some alternatives to saying "a tricky balance"?

You can use alternatives like "a delicate equilibrium", "a precarious compromise", or "a fine line to walk" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

The phrase "a tricky balance" is suitable when discussing situations where opposing forces or considerations need to be carefully managed to achieve a desired outcome. It implies a need for finesse and awareness of potential pitfalls.

What makes achieving "a tricky balance" so challenging?

Achieving "a tricky balance" is challenging because it often involves navigating conflicting priorities, limited resources, and uncertain outcomes. Success depends on careful judgment, adaptability, and a willingness to compromise.