imbalance

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "imbalance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a state of inequality, disproportion, or an unequal distribution of something. Example sentence: The wealth imbalance between countries is becoming increasingly stark.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In examining changes in the activity of the sun and volcanoes, Trenberth and Fasullo estimated that they can account for no more than a 20 percent reduction in the Earth's energy imbalance, which is what causes global warming.

The Guardian

The eurozone has its problems of imbalance, productivity, growth, debt and unemployment, certainly.

The Guardian

The modest sound of a damehood, however – along with the righteous spectacle of a gender imbalance being corrected – still ensures that the average new dame will find the world beaming right back at this purported triumph for equality/the working classes/her grandchildren.

The Guardian - Opinion

Invariably, these include accusations of gender imbalance in the allocation of custody, or the fact that the male suicide rate is several times higher than it is for women.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He said there were considerable political challenges to overcome "such as considering changes to the proportion of tax collected by different levels of government in Australia, and any consequences for the imbalance between state government spending and taxing, as well as for transfers between the states".

The Guardian

He said he would be introducing positive action to tackle the gender imbalance, with women now making up 14% of the Network Rail workforce.

The Guardian - Business

It turns out, the imbalance changes a lot over time.

The Guardian

Most studies show that the energy imbalance is in the range of 0.5 to 1 Watt per square meter of surface area, which is causing ongoing global warming.

The Guardian

The fling can seem to temporarily cure feelings of an imbalance or a lack of meaning.

The Guardian - Opinion

By subtracting one energy flow from the other, they found what is called the Earth's energy imbalance.

The Guardian

She said: "All this might seem far away from us, but there is no better example of the imbalance in profit and poverty between the western world and Africa than when you're talking about cocoa production and the latte that you drink".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "imbalance", clearly specify the elements that are not in proportion to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "imbalance" as a general term for any problem. Instead, ensure it refers specifically to a disproportion or lack of equilibrium between defined elements.

Linguistic Context

The noun "imbalance" functions as a descriptor of a state of disequilibrium or lack of proportion between two or more elements. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Opinion

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "imbalance" is a versatile noun used to describe a state of disequilibrium or lack of proportion. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. When using "imbalance", ensure you clearly define the elements that are not in proportion to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "disproportion" or "inequality" to add nuance. The key is to use "imbalance" when specifically referring to a lack of equilibrium between defined elements, ensuring clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unbalance

This alternative directly implies a state where stability or equilibrium is disrupted.

lack of balance

This alternative highlights the absence of equilibrium, focusing on the missing state of balance.

disproportion

This term emphasizes the unequal distribution or ratio between elements.

inequality

This alternative stresses the unfair or unjust distribution of resources or opportunities.

disparity

This emphasizes a significant difference or gap between two or more things.

lack of equilibrium

Highlights the absence of a stable, balanced state.

asymmetry

This term focuses on the lack of symmetry or correspondence between different parts.

uneven distribution

This alternative describes how something isn't spread or allocated equally.

lack of parity

This indicates an absence of equality or equivalence.

impropriety

Conveys something is out of line or inappropriate

FAQs

How can I effectively use "imbalance" in a sentence?

Use "imbalance" to describe a state where things are not equal or proportionate. For example, "There is an imbalance of power in the organization."

What are some alternatives to using the word "imbalance"?

You can use alternatives like "disproportion", "inequality", or "disparity" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "an imbalance of" or "imbalance in"?

Both phrases are correct, but "an imbalance of" is typically used when referring to quantities or amounts, while "imbalance in" is used for more abstract concepts. For example, "an imbalance of resources" versus "imbalance in power".

What's the difference between "imbalance" and "instability"?

"Imbalance" refers to a lack of proportion or equilibrium, while "instability" refers to a lack of steadiness or reliability. An "imbalance" can contribute to "instability", but they are not the same thing.