Words of Positivity
Browse the A to Z index4,633 ENTRIES

Balance

n.calm, thoughtfuleveryday

What it means

A workable proportion between competing needs in which none is neglected.

Reach for it when describing a healthy arrangement of time, effort, interests, or qualities

The revised rota created a better balance between coverage and recovery time.

Choose between these

7
  • playful

    blend

    different qualities combine attractively

    not when fairness between demands is key

  • everyday

    middle ground

    a compromise lies between positions

    not when the best mix is not halfway

  • warm

    harmony

    parts work pleasingly together

    not when equal weighting must be explicit

  • professional

    proportion

    the relative amounts are central

    not when emotional steadiness is intended

  • professional

    stability

    resistance to sudden disruption matters

    not when variety between elements matters

  • formal

    equilibrium

    stressing a stable state between forces

    not when human priorities need warmer language

  • literary

    poise

    calm personal self-command is praised

    not when a schedule or allocation is meant

Said against

3
  • imbalance
  • excess
  • instability

It naturally appears in

3
  • healthy balance

    A healthy balance of rehearsal and rest protected the singers' voices.

  • strike a balance

    The committee tried to strike a balance between access and quiet study.

  • sense of balance

    Her sense of balance kept the discussion practical and humane.

Where this comes from

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.