at a balance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a balance" is not commonly used in written English and may be considered awkward or incorrect in certain contexts.
It could be used when discussing financial statements or accounts, but it is more typical to say "in balance" or "at balance." Example: "The account is currently at a balance of $1,000."

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

As a practical matter, that often means arriving at a balance between potency and side effects.

The New York Times - Magazine

Users can get an instant look at a balance and a detailed summary of all recent transactions.

The New York Times - Tech

We extracted a collection of eye movement signals employed for almost two decades in clinical otoneurological tests at a balance laboratory.

Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine

And you could watch a major conductor as players saw him: cajoling, marking time, looking faintly annoyed at a balance issue, smiling at Prokofiev's quirkier touches, throwing himself viscerally into the fortissimos.

The New Yorker

A previously developed layout complexity index together with a code-based structural complexity assessment are used to determine the structural complexity of standalone pieces of equipment and to arrive at a balance between the two sources of complexity.

Journal of Manufacturing Systems

In Israel, new guidelines for setting speeds on the road network were introduced aiming at a balance between the target and actual travel speeds on various road types and, thus, supporting the SER concept.

Transportation Research Procedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

"Take a peek at 'A Balanced Budget for a Stronger America,' " Price replied, holding up the budget again for the cameras.

The Washington Post

We are sitting here at a balancing point in our lives, and in speaking this evening, I hope to instill both excitement and nostalgia.

The New York Times

Many clinical studies have shown that balance improves with practice at a balance-challenging task.

Forbes

The proposed technique aims at finding a balance between accuracy and computational efficiency.

Electric Power Systems Research

Hoppen juggles her various investments with her own business, and says she has become adept at finding a balance.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing scenarios where competing elements are equally influencing a situation, consider using "at a balance" to highlight this equilibrium. For instance: "The company aimed at a balance between cost-cutting and maintaining product quality."

Common error

Avoid using "at a balance" when simpler alternatives like "in balance" or "equilibrium" suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnatural or forced. Ensure the context truly calls for emphasizing a state of equilibrium achieved through opposing forces.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a balance" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating a state of equilibrium or a point where opposing forces are equal. As shown by Ludwig, it commonly introduces the idea of moderation or compromise.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at a balance" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate a state of equilibrium or harmony between opposing forces. While grammatically acceptable, it's not always the most natural choice, and simpler alternatives like "in balance" or "equilibrium" may be preferable. As Ludwig AI notes, its usage often appears in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts. When employing this phrase, consider whether it truly emphasizes the act of balancing or if a more direct term would be more effective. Overall, while 'at a balance' may not be the most common turn of phrase, it can be a fit in specific situations when highlighting the equipoise of elements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in balance

A more concise and common way to express a state of equilibrium.

in equilibrium

Indicates a state of perfect balance where opposing forces are equal.

at equilibrium

Another way to state that something is in a state of balance or stability.

in a balanced state

Emphasizes the condition of being balanced, highlighting the state rather than the act of achieving it.

in a state of equilibrium

Similar to "in equilibrium", but with a stronger emphasis on the 'state' aspect.

in a state of harmony

Implies a pleasing or congruent arrangement, often used in contexts where aesthetic or functional balance is important.

in a stable condition

Focuses on the aspect of stability and resistance to change or disturbance.

striking a balance

Focuses on the act of achieving equilibrium, often between conflicting needs or desires.

finding a compromise

Emphasizes mutual concessions to reach an agreement.

reaching an agreement

Conveys the idea of parties settling on common ground.

FAQs

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

Use "at a balance" to describe situations where opposing forces or elements are in equilibrium. For example, "The negotiation aimed "at striking a balance" between the demands of the union and the financial constraints of the company."

What's the difference between "at a balance" and "in balance"?

"At a balance" implies a state of equilibrium that has been achieved or is being maintained, whereas "in balance" generally refers to a state of being equal or harmonious. Although similar, "in balance" is often preferred for its simplicity.

Which is correct, "at a balance" or "in equilibrium"?

Both "at a balance" and "in equilibrium" are grammatically acceptable, but "in equilibrium" is often used in more formal or scientific contexts, while "at a balance" can be suitable for broader applications that emphasize the act of balancing.

What are some alternatives to using "at a balance" in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "in equilibrium", "in a balanced state", "in a state of harmony", or "striking a balance" to convey similar meanings.