upset the balance

USAGE SUMMARY

"Upset the balance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it in most contexts, but it is typically used when referring to a situation in which one side is giving much more than the other side, or when a particular element throws off the equilibrium of something. Example: Her unannounced arrival at the party upset the balance of the guest list.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But these last disasters have upset the balance.

The Guardian

Another star name in Suarez could upset the balance further.

Independent

But only rarely did one sensibility upset the balance.

The New York Times - Arts

And additional training has the potential to upset the balance of power between labor and management.

The New York Times

Tells how the European, his paraphernalia & domestic animals upset the balance of man & the African land.

The New Yorker

Disparities in size changes are likely to upset the balance of ecosystems, the authors write.

The New York Times

At any moment, new historical circumstances, like industrialization or globalization, might upset the balance.

The New York Times

That sort of thing at least has the potential to upset the balance of nature.

The Guardian - Business

An unplanned event like a stray ball in the yard could upset the balance.

The New York Times

Because everybody else was trying not to upset the balance in Europe, tiptoeing around Hitler.

The Guardian - Film

"The greatest danger is man, who can upset the balance," he said.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider alternative phrasing to emphasize the degree of disruption. Is it a minor disturbance or a complete upheaval?

Common error

Avoid using "upset the balance" in excessively abstract or vague situations. If the specific elements affected by the disruption are unclear, the phrase loses its impact and becomes cliché.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "upset the balance" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action that disrupts a state of equilibrium or stability. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a situation where an element throws off the equilibrium of something. The examples show how it's used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "upset the balance" is a versatile phrase used to describe the disruption of equilibrium across various domains. As Ludwig AI points out, its grammatical status is correct, and the phrase is considered very common. Primarily found in news, media, science and wiki sources, this phrase carries a neutral tone and serves the purpose of indicating a shift from a previously stable state. Remember to be precise about what "balance" you are referencing and consider the degree of disruption you want to convey. By using this phrase wisely, you can ensure your writing remains impactful and avoids clichés.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disturb the equilibrium

Similar to "disrupt the equilibrium", but can imply a less intense or permanent change.

disrupt equilibrium

Focuses on the disruption of a state of equilibrium, implying a disturbance of stability.

cause imbalance

Directly points to the creation of a state where elements are not in proportion or equilibrium.

unsettle the equilibrium

Similar to 'disrupt equilibrium', but suggests a less drastic or permanent effect.

tip the scales

Suggests a shift in power or advantage, disrupting a previous equilibrium.

destabilize the situation

Highlights the loss of stability as a consequence of an action or event.

ruin the balance

Strongly suggests the balance is destroyed or severely compromised.

throw into disarray

Emphasizes the chaotic result of disrupting a previously ordered state.

disrupt the status quo

Specifically targets the disturbance of the existing state of affairs or social order.

derange the stability

Emphasizes the disruption of a stable state or condition, often implying a more significant disturbance.

FAQs

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

You can use "upset the balance" to describe situations where a previously stable or equal state is disrupted. For example, "The new policy could "upset the balance" of power within the organization".

What can I say instead of "upset the balance"?

You can use alternatives like "disrupt equilibrium", "destabilize the situation", or "throw into disarray" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "upset the balance" or "disrupt the balance"?

Both ""upset the balance"" and "disrupt the balance" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice between them often depends on stylistic preference or the specific context.

What does it mean to "upset the balance of power"?

To "upset the balance of power" means to change the existing distribution of influence or control, often leading to instability or conflict.