strike a balance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strike a balance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to talk about finding or achieving a compromise or agreement between two opposing sides or ideas. For example: "The government will have to strike a balance between protecting public safety and respecting civil liberties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I strike a balance.

The New York Times - Sports

Politicians have to strike a balance.

The Economist

But Tesco needs to strike a balance.

The Economist

"We tried to strike a balance.

The New York Times

Or can it strike a balance?

The New York Times

You can't strike a balance.

The Guardian - Books

"Together, we strike a balance".

The New York Times

How to strike a balance?

Harvard Business Review

Colorado's law tries to strike a balance.

The New York Times

"People want to strike a balance".

The New York Times

Mr. Seale had to strike a balance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "strike a balance", ensure the conflicting elements are clearly defined to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid claiming a perfect balance has been achieved when only a partial compromise is reached. Accurately reflect the degree of equilibrium attained.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strike a balance" functions as a verbal phrase, often used to indicate the action of finding a compromise or equilibrium between two or more conflicting needs or desires. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strike a balance" is a versatile and grammatically correct phrase used to express the act of finding equilibrium or compromise between conflicting elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it enjoys widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and formal business settings. The phrase conveys a sense of thoughtful consideration and is essential for effective communication when discussing complex issues requiring moderation. Keep in mind that while 'striking a balance' is important, remember to accurately reflect the degree of equilibrium that is attained. Related phrases such as "find a middle ground" or "reach a compromise" offer alternatives to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a balance

Focuses more on the act of setting up a balance initially, rather than the dynamic process of achieving it.

strike a compromise

Specifically implies reaching an agreement where each side concedes something.

find a middle ground

Emphasizes finding a position between two extremes.

achieve equilibrium

More formal and scientific, suggesting a state of stable balance.

find the golden mean

Refers to finding the ideal moderate position, often associated with philosophical contexts.

reach a happy medium

Implies finding a solution that is satisfactory to everyone involved.

seek moderation

Highlights the act of actively seeking a balanced approach.

negotiate a settlement

Suggests a more formal process of reaching an agreement, often in disputes.

find common ground

Implies finding areas of agreement between differing viewpoints.

mediate differences

Focuses on resolving conflicts by finding a balanced solution.

FAQs

How can I use "strike a balance" in a sentence?

You can use "strike a balance" to describe finding a compromise or equilibrium between two opposing forces or needs. For example, "The company needs to "strike a balance" between cost-cutting and maintaining product quality."

What can I say instead of "strike a balance"?

You can use alternatives such as "find a middle ground", "reach a compromise", or "achieve equilibrium" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "strike a balance" or "find a balance"?

Both ""strike a balance"" and "find a balance" are acceptable, but ""strike a balance"" often implies a more active and intentional effort to achieve equilibrium, while "find a balance" can suggest a more passive discovery.

What does it mean to "strike a balance" between work and personal life?

To ""strike a balance"" between work and personal life means to find a way to dedicate sufficient time and energy to both your professional responsibilities and your personal needs, relationships, and well-being, without one overwhelming the other.