countervailing forces

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "countervailing forces" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe opposing influences or factors that balance each other out in a particular situation or context. Example: "In the debate over climate change policy, there are countervailing forces at play, including economic interests and environmental concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Countervailing forces are at work in the energy markets.

The New York Times

In France, countervailing forces seem sure to intervene, too.

The New Yorker

Corporations were acting as countervailing forces on one another.

The Economist

Some of those countervailing forces come from popular mobilisation".

The Guardian

And, therefore, what you need is countervailing forces.

The Guardian

The reasons behind these two countervailing forces seem clear.

The New York Times

But there are also several countervailing forces that he does not mention.

The New Yorker

Communist and Muslim separatist guerrillas are an irritation rather than countervailing forces to be reckoned with.

The Economist

But with so many countervailing forces, the liquidity tiger will not be tamed so easily.

The New York Times

It felt very different, because the countervailing forces were more vocal than they are today.

The Guardian

Jeremy Gilbert also points to this need to build countervailing forces to finance capital.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing complex systems or situations, use "countervailing forces" to acknowledge the multiple, often opposing, factors that influence outcomes. This shows a nuanced understanding of the dynamics at play.

Common error

Avoid only focusing on the most obvious forces in a situation. The concept of "countervailing forces" implies that even seemingly minor influences can play a significant role in shaping the overall outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "countervailing forces" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it describes opposing influences or factors that balance each other out in a particular situation or context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "countervailing forces" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes opposing influences that balance each other. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, the phrase is suitable for analyzing complex situations where multiple factors impact the outcome. Related phrases include "offsetting factors" and "balancing influences". To use the phrase effectively, acknowledge all influencing factors, not just the obvious ones.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offsetting factors

Focuses on the neutralizing effect of the forces, highlighting their capacity to balance or negate each other.

balancing influences

Emphasizes the equilibrium achieved through the interaction of these influences, suggesting a state of dynamic stability.

opposing influences

Highlights the antagonistic nature of the forces, stressing their direct conflict or resistance to each other.

contrasting factors

Focuses on the difference and divergence between the factors, emphasizing their distinct and often conflicting natures.

moderating factors

Implies a reduction in intensity or extremity, suggesting that these factors temper or mitigate the impact of other forces.

checks and balances

Specifically refers to a system designed to limit power and prevent abuse, often in a political or organizational context.

competitive dynamics

Highlights the interaction and rivalry among different entities or factors, stressing the element of competition.

reciprocal actions

Focuses on actions that are mutually dependent and responsive, suggesting a back-and-forth exchange of influence.

corrective measures

Indicates actions taken to rectify imbalances or errors, suggesting a deliberate effort to restore equilibrium.

adjusting variables

Highlights the flexibility and adaptability of these elements, stressing their ability to change and respond to different conditions.

FAQs

How can I use the term "countervailing forces" in a sentence?

You can use "countervailing forces" to describe opposing influences balancing each other, as in: "In the debate over climate change policy, there are "countervailing forces" at play, including economic interests and environmental concerns."

What are some alternatives to "countervailing forces"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "countervailing forces" include "offsetting factors", "balancing influences", or "opposing influences".

In what contexts is the term "countervailing forces" most appropriately used?

"Countervailing forces" is suitable when discussing situations with opposing influences that create a balance, such as in economics, politics, or physics. For instance: "There are "countervailing forces" that keep the rock stuck, beyond the mere absence of an impetus to move."

What is the difference between "opposing forces" and "countervailing forces"?

"Opposing forces" simply indicates forces in opposition, while "countervailing forces" suggests that these forces create a balance or equilibrium. While both terms can be used interchangeably in some contexts, "countervailing forces" implies a more dynamic and interactive relationship, involving "balancing influences".