Equilibrium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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equilibrium
[ˌiːkwɪˈlɪbriəm ]
Definitions
in physics
A state in which opposing forces or influences are balanced.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| equilibrium |
Use in scientific or technical contexts to describe a state of rest or balance due to the equal action of opposing forces.
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| balance |
Best used in everyday situations to describe maintaining stability or fair treatment. It can apply to physical, emotional, or figurative scenarios.
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| stability |
Best used to refer to firmness, strength, or consistency over time, often in social, political, or structural situations.
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| harmony |
Appropriate for describing a pleasing or coordinated arrangement, often in social, musical, or aesthetic contexts. It suggests a beautiful, peaceful state.
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Examples of usage
- The object is in equilibrium when the forces acting on it are equal and opposite.
- In order to maintain equilibrium, adjustments must be made whenever there is a change in the external conditions.
in economics
A state of balance between supply and demand.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| equilibrium |
Use this term in scientific or technical contexts, particularly in physics, chemistry, or biology to indicate a state of stability or balance.
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| balance |
This word is more general and can be used in a wide range of contexts including financial, physical, emotional, or logical stability.
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| equipoise |
This term is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe a state of balance or a situation where opposing forces are equally balanced.
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| parity |
Commonly used in economic, political, or social discussions to refer to equality or equivalence, especially regarding status or pay.
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Examples of usage
- The market reached equilibrium when the quantity supplied equals the quantity demanded.
- Changes in prices and wages help to restore equilibrium in the economy.
in psychology
A state of mental or emotional balance.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| equilibrium |
Use 'equilibrium' in scientific or technical contexts to describe a state of balance between opposing forces or influences.
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| balance |
Use 'balance' in everyday situations to describe a state where different elements are equal or in the correct proportions; it can also refer to physical stability.
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| composure |
Use 'composure' to describe a state of being calm and in control of one's emotions, often in stressful situations.
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| poise |
Use 'poise' to describe a graceful and elegant bearing in a person, often under challenging circumstances.
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Examples of usage
- Finding equilibrium between work and personal life is crucial for overall well-being.
- Therapy can help individuals achieve a sense of equilibrium in their emotions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, equilibrium refers to a situation where all the forces acting on an object are balanced, so it remains at rest or in uniform motion.
- Chemical equilibrium occurs when the rate of the forward reaction equals the rate of the reverse reaction in a chemical process.
Economics
- In economics, market equilibrium is reached when supply equals demand, determining the price of goods.
- This concept helps predict how changes in market conditions (like a disaster) can affect prices and availability.
Psychology
- Psychological equilibrium refers to an individual's mental state of balance, where thoughts and emotions are stable.
- Maintaining emotional equilibrium can contribute to well-being and resilience.
Art
- In visual arts, equilibrium can refer to balance in composition, where elements are arranged to create a pleasing aesthetic.
- Artists often play with visual equilibrium by contrasting colors and shapes for dynamic effect.
Origin of 'equilibrium'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin, where 'aequus' means 'equal' and 'libra' means 'scales' or 'balance'.
- First appeared in English in the late 15th century, originally used in scientific contexts.
The word 'equilibrium' originated from the Latin words 'aequus' meaning equal and 'libra' meaning balance. The concept of equilibrium has been fundamental in various fields including physics, economics, and psychology. It represents a state of balance and stability, where opposing forces are in harmony. Understanding and maintaining equilibrium is essential for the functioning of systems and individuals.