the balance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the balance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an equilibrium or a state of stability, often in contexts related to finance, health, or decision-making. Example: "After reviewing the budget, we need to ensure that the balance between expenses and income is maintained."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The balance.

Independent

Where's the balance?

The New York Times

The balance is good.

Independent

What is the balance?

The New York Times

The balance wasn't kept".

The New Yorker

The balance is delicate.

The New Yorker

Therein lies the balance.

The New York Times - Sports

They ruined the balance!

The New York Times - Arts

The balance is ridiculous.

Independent

Some voters understand the balance.

The Economist

It will shift the balance".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the balance", consider the specific context. For financial contexts, it refers to the difference between credits and debits; in more abstract contexts, it suggests equilibrium or harmony. Choose alternatives carefully to match the intended nuance.

Common error

Avoid using "the balance" loosely without a clear understanding of its application. Ensure it appropriately reflects equilibrium or proportionality in your specific context. Overusing it in contexts where simpler terms like "fairness" or "stability" would suffice can diminish clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the balance" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that this is grammatically correct. It denotes a state of equilibrium, a remaining amount, or a sense of proportion, as seen in various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the balance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase signifying equilibrium, proportion, or a remaining amount. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Its usage spans various contexts, from news and media to science and wiki articles, indicating its versatility. When writing, it's crucial to consider the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the intended meaning. Alternatives like "the equilibrium" or "the stability" can be used for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the equilibrium

This alternative emphasizes a state of equal forces or influences.

the stability

This alternative highlights the state of being steady and not changing.

the proportion

This alternative focuses on the relative size or degree of something.

the symmetry

This alternative suggests a balanced arrangement or correspondence of parts.

the fairness

This alternative implies impartiality and justness in distribution or treatment.

the evenness

This alternative emphasizes a lack of variation or inequality.

the reconciliation

This alternative suggests bringing opposing elements into harmony.

the trade-off

This alternative focuses on the exchange of one thing for another, often implying a compromise.

the calibration

This alternative emphasizes the act of adjusting something to ensure accuracy and balance.

the equipoise

This alternative conveys a state of perfect balance or equilibrium.

FAQs

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

You can use "the balance" to refer to a state of equilibrium, a remaining amount, or a sense of proportion. For example: "Maintaining "the balance is important" for a healthy lifestyle" or "What is "the balance on the account"?".

What are some alternatives to "the balance"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "the equilibrium", "the stability", or "the proportion".

Is it correct to say "the balance is good"?

Yes, "the balance is good" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate a favorable state of equilibrium or proportion, as demonstrated by the example from Ludwig: "The balance is good".

What does "everything hangs in the balance" mean?

"Everything hangs in "the balance"" means that the outcome of a situation is uncertain and that significant consequences depend on it. It indicates a critical and precarious state where the final result is yet to be determined.