precariously balanced

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "precariously balanced" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is in a state of instability or uncertainty, often implying that it could easily fall or fail. Example: "The stack of books was precariously balanced on the edge of the table, threatening to topple over at any moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The future of this particular species is precariously balanced.

The Guardian

Much of his work is precariously balanced between the grim and the whimsical.

The New Yorker

He lifts her and she soars, precariously balanced on just one of his hands.

The New York Times

Its boxy white cabin seems precariously balanced on a concrete pillar.

The New York Times - Arts

Its boxy white cabin seems precariously balanced on a single concrete pillar.

The New York Times - Arts

These blogs speak to my experience; the feeling of everything being precariously balanced.

Independent

This scene of apparent social freedom turns out to be precariously balanced.

The Guardian

He was less concerned with punch lines than with precariously balanced towers of whimsy.

The New York Times - Books

Then, accompanying the projection, there's a translucent porcelain vase precariously balanced on a plinth.

The Guardian - Arts

Up on Showery Tor, the precariously balanced boulders glisten as sun emerges through storm clouds.

The Guardian

The lighthouse is precariously balanced on its platform and completely isolated.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about abstract concepts, use "precariously balanced" to highlight the delicate nature of a situation, emphasizing that it could easily change for the worse.

Common error

While appropriate in many situations, avoid overusing "precariously balanced" in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for more precise and less figurative language when accuracy is paramount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precariously balanced" primarily functions as an adjective phrase, modifying nouns to describe their unstable or risky state. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it often adds a sense of impending danger or uncertainty to the description.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "precariously balanced" is a versatile adjective phrase used to describe states of instability and risk. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. Its purpose is to highlight the fragile nature of a situation or object, often implying an imminent threat of collapse or failure. While suitable for both formal and informal writing, it's important to consider the specific context and choose the most precise language possible. Related phrases include "perilously unstable" and "delicately poised", offering nuances in meaning and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perilously unstable

Emphasizes the danger and potential for sudden collapse or failure more strongly.

delicately poised

Suggests a fragile equilibrium that could easily be disrupted.

tenuously supported

Highlights the weakness or inadequacy of the support structure.

in a precarious state

Focuses on the overall condition being risky and uncertain.

hanging by a thread

Conveys a sense of being on the verge of failure or disaster.

on the brink

Indicates being close to a significant or dangerous event.

in a state of imbalance

Emphasizes the lack of equilibrium and potential for instability.

flirting with disaster

Suggests a playful but risky approach to a dangerous situation.

on shaky ground

Implies a lack of security or stability.

walking a tightrope

Describes a situation requiring careful navigation to avoid failure.

FAQs

How can I use "precariously balanced" in a sentence?

You can use "precariously balanced" to describe physical objects, like "The vase was "precariously balanced" on the edge of the table", or abstract situations, such as "The country's economy is "precariously balanced" after the recent crisis".

What are some alternatives to "precariously balanced"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "perilously unstable", "delicately poised", or "tenuously supported".

Is "precariously balanced" formal or informal?

"Precariously balanced" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in highly technical contexts, more precise language might be preferred. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a versatile phrase.

What does "precariously balanced" mean?

"Precariously balanced" describes something that is in an unstable state, where it is likely to fall or fail. It suggests a lack of security or equilibrium.