in equilibrium

USAGE SUMMARY

"in equilibrium" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to mean that two or more forces or elements of something are equal or balanced. For example: The market forces in the economy are currently in equilibrium.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He didn't believe in equilibrium.

The New Yorker

Obviously this will not happen in equilibrium.

The Economist

It is therefore not in equilibrium.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When the humors were in equilibrium, a body was healthy.

The New York Times - Arts

"I like a wine in balance, in equilibrium.

The New York Times

We are now in equilibrium in terms of supply, demand and pricing.

The New York Times

Techno and house, these are the things that keep me in equilibrium.

The Guardian - Music

So there must be something happening to the telomeres to keep their length in equilibrium.

The New York Times - Science

This means that the gases dissolved inside their bodies are in equilibrium with the pressure outside.

The New Yorker

In general, the oceans' average salt content is in equilibrium and does not change over time.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At one time, the deer population was in equilibrium with its environment.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing systems, especially in scientific or economic contexts, use "in equilibrium" to indicate a state where opposing forces are balanced and the system is stable.

Common error

Avoid using "in equilibrium" when describing a system that is merely static but not necessarily balanced. For example, a stagnant market is not necessarily "in equilibrium" if there are underlying imbalances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in equilibrium" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a state of balance or stability. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in equilibrium" signifies a state of balance and stability, widely employed across diverse fields such as science, economics, and general discourse. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently encountered, making it a reliable choice for describing balanced systems. While generally neutral to formal, the context dictates the specific register. Related phrases like "in a balanced state" or "in a steady state" can provide subtle variations in meaning. When employing the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a system where opposing forces are actively balanced rather than merely static.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a balanced state

Emphasizes the balanced condition, suitable when highlighting the equilibrium of different components.

in a state of balance

Similar to "in a balanced state", but focuses on the condition of balance itself.

evenly balanced

Stresses the equal distribution of forces or components.

in a stable condition

Highlights the stability aspect of being in equilibrium.

in a steady state

Implies a condition where inputs and outputs are equal, leading to no net change.

at rest

Focuses on the lack of movement or change, which is a common characteristic of equilibrium.

in a state of homeostasis

Specifically refers to the stable state of internal conditions in a living organism.

mutually offsetting

Highlights how opposing forces or factors cancel each other out.

in a standoff

Suggests a situation where opposing forces are equal, preventing any progress or change.

in a trade off

A situation where competing factors are in equilibrium.

FAQs

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

You can use "in equilibrium" to describe a state of balance in various contexts. For example, "The supply and demand curves are "in equilibrium", resulting in a stable price point."

What does "in equilibrium" mean?

The phrase "in equilibrium" indicates a state where opposing forces or influences are balanced, resulting in stability and no net change. This can apply to physical systems, economic models, or even social dynamics.

What are some alternatives to saying "in equilibrium"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "in a balanced state", "in a steady state", or "at rest" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "the system is in equilibrium"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to say "the system is "in equilibrium"". This phrase is commonly used in scientific, economic, and other fields to describe a state of balance within a system.