water balance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "water balance" is correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to the state or level of water in an area, system, or organism. It is typically used in scientific or technical contexts. Example: "The water balance of the lake has been greatly affected by the recent drought, causing a drop in the water level."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hydraulic conductance and the maintenance of water balance in flowers.

Yale University

The kidney must expend energy to control water balance (osmoregulation).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Water balance of a community was calculated by the model.

Journal of Cleaner Production

Among others land use change influences the local water balance.

Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Part B: Hydrology, Oceans and Atmosphere

We identify the following conclusions from the water balance analysis.

Journal of Hydrology

The increase in impervious areas disrupts the natural water balance.

Journal of Hydrology

The virus affects the fish's skin and kidneys, which control its water balance.

The Guardian

It's very primal, down there along with thirst, sleep and water balance".

The Guardian

Porporato, A., Daly, E. & Rodríguez-Iturbe, I. Soil water balance and ecosystem response to climate change.

Nature

Its area varies within significant limits, depending on the water balance.

Britannica

Kidney, in vertebrates and some invertebrates, organ that maintains water balance and expels metabolic wastes.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing environmental impact, use "water balance" to describe how changes in land use or climate affect water availability in a region.

Common error

Don't assume "water balance" only means sufficient water. It refers to the equilibrium between inputs and outputs in a system, which can be disrupted even with plentiful overall supply.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "water balance" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to the equilibrium between water inputs and outputs in a system, whether environmental or biological. Ludwig confirms this correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

Academia

31%

News & Media

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "water balance" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes the equilibrium between water inputs and outputs in a system. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. It is most frequently used in scientific and academic contexts, and less often in encyclopedias or business settings. When writing about environmental or biological systems, remember that "water balance" refers to more than just the amount of water; it describes a dynamic equilibrium. Be sure to use it to illustrate the relationships between inputs and outputs, rather than to simply state that there is enough water.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

water equilibrium

Focuses on the state of equilibrium in water content, emphasizing a steady state.

water budget

Emphasizes the accounting of water inputs and outputs in a specific area.

hydrological balance

Related to the balance within the hydrologic cycle, a broader environmental context.

hydration status

Specifically refers to the level of water in a biological organism.

water homeostasis

Focuses on the body's ability to maintain a stable internal water level.

fluid balance

Broader term encompassing all fluids, not just water, within a system.

water sustainability

Highlights long-term availability and responsible use of water resources.

moisture balance

Highlights the balance of moisture, often used in agricultural or environmental contexts.

soil water content

Specifically indicates the amount of water present in the soil.

freshwater resources

Emphasis on the available quantities of non-saline water.

FAQs

How is "water balance" calculated in environmental studies?

In environmental studies, "water balance" is typically calculated as the difference between water inputs (precipitation, inflows) and outputs (evaporation, runoff, withdrawals) in a specific area over a period of time. This helps understand water availability and sustainability.

What factors can affect the "water balance" of a region?

Various factors, including climate change, deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural practices, can significantly impact the "water balance" of a region by altering precipitation patterns, evaporation rates, and water runoff.

How does the concept of "water balance" apply to human health?

In human health, "water balance" refers to maintaining an equal intake and output of fluids to ensure proper bodily functions. This involves the kidneys, which regulate water excretion, and hormonal systems that control thirst and fluid retention.

What are some alternatives to "water balance" when discussing hydration in the body?

When talking about hydration in the body, you can use terms like "hydration status", "fluid balance", or "body water content" to describe the level of water in a person's system.