delicate equilibrium

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delicate equilibrium" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an expression used to refer to a situation that is very sensitive and easily disrupted. For example: "The fragile environment of the rainforest is in a delicate equilibrium that needs to be preserved".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"This is a very delicate equilibrium".

The New York Times

Now, the delicate equilibrium is being disturbed.

The New York Times

Then in 1996 he learned that he was H.I.V. positive, and his delicate equilibrium collapsed.

The New York Times

This has threatened to disrupt the delicate equilibrium established since Mr Hadi took over.

The Economist

There is concern that an increase in deer stalking may be disrupting the delicate equilibrium of Exmoor.

The Guardian

Sadly, the Communist Party is doing a good job maintaining the delicate equilibrium between upheaval and contentment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

The resulting pattern is at a delicate balance: cells that reach the high equilibrium suppress virus growth in neighboring cells, and the silenced cells cause a low enough siRNA influx into the cell to stay at the high state.

BMC Systems Biology

Joe Root and Jonathan Trott demonstrate how delicate the equilibrium of a batting order can be.

The Guardian - Sport

The delicate thermal equilibrium of permafrost is disrupted when the vegetation, snow cover, or active layer is compacted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It's reassuring to see her display something other than the blank "Drone Queen" callousness of recent weeks, though you do wonder how long she can maintain this delicate emotional equilibrium, given what we know of her.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was found that in solvent-cast thick films the formation of equilibrium free surface depends on a delicate balance of kinetic and thermodynamic parameters.

Polymer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "delicate equilibrium" when describing systems or situations where small changes can have significant impacts. This phrase is especially effective in contexts involving environmental science, politics, or personal relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "delicate equilibrium" to describe inherently stable situations. This phrase implies a certain level of fragility or potential for disruption, so reserve it for contexts where this is genuinely the case.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delicate equilibrium" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig indicates, it describes a sensitive and easily disrupted state of balance. Examples show it used across various domains to denote precarious stability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "delicate equilibrium" is a frequently used noun phrase that signifies a sensitive and easily disrupted state of balance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Analysis of numerous examples reveals its common occurrence in scientific, news, and formal contexts, highlighting its versatility. Alternative phrases, such as "fragile balance" or "precarious balance", offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts. Understanding the contexts in which "delicate equilibrium" is most appropriate, as well as potential pitfalls to avoid, can enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fragile balance

Emphasizes the vulnerability and susceptibility to disruption of the balance.

precarious balance

Highlights the instability and risk associated with the balance.

sensitive balance

Focuses on the responsiveness and susceptibility to change of the balance.

tenuous balance

Underscores the weak and fragile nature of the balance.

unstable equilibrium

Directly states the lack of stability in the equilibrium.

critical balance

Indicates the importance and sensitivity of the balance.

fine balance

Suggests a balance achieved with great precision and care.

narrow margin

Implies that success or stability depends on very precise conditions.

knife-edge situation

Highlights the dangerous and precarious nature of the situation.

balancing act

Refers to maintaining equilibrium through constant adjustment.

FAQs

How can I use "delicate equilibrium" in a sentence?

You can use "delicate equilibrium" to describe a situation where opposing forces are balanced, but easily disrupted. For example, "The ecosystem exists in a "delicate equilibrium", where the removal of one species can have cascading effects."

What are some alternatives to "delicate equilibrium"?

Alternatives to "delicate equilibrium" include "fragile balance", "precarious balance", and "sensitive balance". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "delicate equilibrium" or "delicate balance"?

Both "delicate equilibrium" and "delicate balance" are correct, but "equilibrium" often implies a more formal or scientific context. "Balance" is generally more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.

What does it mean when something disrupts a "delicate equilibrium"?

When something disrupts a "delicate equilibrium", it means that a previously stable state is thrown into disarray. This disruption can lead to unforeseen consequences and instability within the system.