Balance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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balance
[ˈbæləns ]
Definitions
banking
The amount of money in a bank account or the difference between credits and debits in an account.
Synonyms
total, sum, remainder.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| balance |
Use when referring to the remaining amount in an account or the state where two opposing forces are equal.
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Examples of usage
- Make sure to check your balance regularly to avoid overdraft fees.
- I always keep a minimum balance in my savings account.
physical
A state of equilibrium or equal distribution of weight.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| balance |
This is typically used to refer to a situation where different elements are in the correct proportions, often when talking about physical positioning, finances, or life situations.
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Examples of usage
- The gymnast demonstrated perfect balance on the beam.
- The artist balanced the composition of the painting with light and dark elements.
financial
To offset or compare the value of one thing with another.
Synonyms
offset, compare, equalize.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| balance |
This word is often used to describe the condition where different elements are in the correct proportion or there is a sense of stability. It's commonly used in financial contexts, physical stability, and life management.
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Examples of usage
- We need to balance our budget to avoid deficits.
- She balanced her checkbook to reconcile her expenses.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, balance refers to a state where all forces acting on an object are equal, making it stay still.
- The concept of balance in biology includes maintaining homeostasis, where living organisms keep a stable internal environment.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures emphasize balance in life, such as the Chinese concept of Yin and Yang, which represents complementary opposite forces.
- Balance is often seen as a virtue in various philosophies, suggesting that life should not lean too far in one direction, like work and play.
Psychology
- In mental health, achieving balance between work, relationships, and self-care is crucial for overall well-being.
- Cognitive balance theory suggests that people strive for harmony in their beliefs and attitudes, leading to more stable relationships.
Literature
- Many literary works explore the theme of balance, such as in moral dilemmas where characters must weigh choices against their consequences.
- The portrayal of protagonists often involves their journey towards finding balance in life, often involving conflicts between two opposing forces.
Origin of 'balance'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'bilanx', meaning 'having two scales', which refers to the idea of weighing things evenly.
- In Middle English, 'balance' referred not just to scales but also to mental poise or equilibrium.
The word 'balance' originated from the Latin word 'bilanx', which means 'having two scale- pans'. The concept of balance has been significant throughout history, symbolizing harmony, fairness, and equality. It has been used in various fields such as finance, art, and physical well-being to represent stability and equilibrium.
See also: balanced, balancer, balancing, counterbalance, counterbalancing, imbalance, imbalanced, unbalance, unbalanced.