equally poised

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "equally poised" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of balance or stability, often in a context where two or more elements are being compared or contrasted. Example: "The dancer was equally poised on both feet, demonstrating her exceptional balance and control."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Such was the continued dreamlike trail for the Surf City Boys of Summer, a poised, disciplined group of young players who, under Pratto and his equally poised and disciplined coaching staff, found themselves sitting on the cusp of that rarest of baseball achievements — a World Series championship.

Los Angeles Times

He would be poised to earn fantastic amounts of wealth -- and would be equally poised to earn nothing.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Dinesen delighted in paradox," one critic writes, "in creating endings to her tales that were equally poised between opposite intentions without the linguistic details to suggest where the balance was meant to be heaviest".

The Guardian - Books

Ted Cruz, equally poised as a public speaker, was more visceral, comparing Obama with Neville Chamberlain in 1938 and declaring: "The politically correct doublespeak from this administration has gone beyond ridiculous.

The Guardian

And a lot of amazing roles are created for tall girls that short people don't have an opportunity to do, like 'Rubies.'" Ms. Reichlen, 23, is equally poised offstage.

The New York Times - Arts

Her depiction of Nikki and Calum's evolving relationship is equally poised, showing the reader the braided strands of jealousy, fascination and shared resentment of Phyllis that tie the two siblings together.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Fifty-five years on, the Wyman and Hudson performances seem almost equally as studied and poised as those of Dunne and Taylor.

The New York Times

Michael Thrift conducted Ewan Campbell's Il Tremore and Aaron Holloway-Nahum's Expressions of Sea Level with an equally steady hand, notably poised in the dying moments of Stef Conner's The Ruin.

The Guardian - Music

The diagnosis leaves Sister John poised between two equally unpalatable options.

The New York Times - Books

Separately Barclays issued an overweight recommendation on the business: There is no doubt that Premier Oil's investment case and business model is challenged in a scenario where oil prices remain lower for longer, but equally its stock price looks poised to benefit from even a modest recovery in sentiment.

The Guardian - Business

While not all young enterprise startups have the hype of Slack, there are many taking on equally big opportunities and standing poised to become winners in their category.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "equally poised", ensure that the context clearly establishes what is being compared. It is important that there are at least two subjects that can be described as "poised".

Common error

Avoid using "equally poised" when there is no explicit comparison. The phrase implies a balance or similarity between two or more subjects or qualities. For example, avoid saying "She was equally poised" without clarifying what she is equally poised to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "equally poised" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier describing the quality of being in a balanced and prepared state, and used to compare two or more subjects. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "equally poised" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to denote a similar level of composure, balance, or readiness in two or more subjects. As supported by Ludwig AI, while not exceedingly common, it appears most frequently in news and business contexts. For alternative phrasing, consider options such as "similarly composed" or "just as steady", depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey. When writing, ensure that the context clearly establishes what is being compared to avoid ambiguity. By following these tips, you can effectively use "equally poised" to add precision and clarity to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similarly composed

Emphasizes a comparable state of composure or readiness; focuses on inner state more than outward appearance.

just as steady

Highlights an equivalent level of stability or steadiness; more straightforward and less nuanced.

correspondingly balanced

Focuses on the balance aspect, suggesting that elements are in equilibrium to the same extent.

likewise self-possessed

Stresses a similar degree of confidence and control over one's self, suggesting an inner quality.

identically collected

Emphasizes similarity in calmness and controlled demeanor. More clinical in tone.

equally self-assured

Highlights a comparable level of confidence in oneself. Directly relates to internal confidence rather than outward presentation.

as serene

Implies a similar state of peacefulness and tranquility. Focuses more on calmness and less on readiness.

uniformly controlled

Stresses a constant and consistent degree of control, often in a technical or formal context.

comparably unflappable

Highlights a similar capacity to remain calm and composed under pressure. More colloquial than "equally poised".

similarly unflustered

Emphasizes a parallel state of not being agitated or confused. Indicates a composure under stressful conditions.

FAQs

How can "equally poised" be used in a sentence?

Use "equally poised" to describe two or more entities that possess a similar level of composure, balance, or readiness. For example, "Both candidates were "equally poised" during the debate."

What are some alternatives to "equally poised"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "similarly composed", "just as steady", or "likewise self-possessed".

Is it appropriate to use "equally poised" in formal writing?

Yes, "equally poised" is suitable for formal writing, especially when comparing the attributes of different subjects. Its use conveys a sense of professionalism and balanced assessment, such as describing leaders, speakers, or even strategies. The term is observed in use by Ludwig AI in business sources.

What's the difference between "equally poised" and "well-poised"?

"Well-poised" generally describes a single entity that exhibits a high degree of composure or readiness. "Equally poised" implies a comparison, suggesting that two or more entities share a similar level of poise. The subtle distinction resides in the comparative aspect.