balance

When two opposite forces are in balance, they have the same weight, the same strength, an equal power, or something has been restored to a state of equality.

This word is often used to refer to a distribution of weight:

• If he loses his balance, he’ll fall off of the surfboard.
• Have you ever tried to balance something with your hands?
• You have to have a good sense of balance to be a dancer.
• Jose lost his balance and fell off of his bicycle.

He’s just about to lose his balance.

This word is popularly used when talking about a busy lifestyle:

• Jennifer is trying to balance a full-time job with her responsibilities as a mother of three kids.
• Bob is balancing three part-time jobs.
• You can balance a career and your personal interests if you learn how to manage your time.

The word "balance" can be used to refer to a bank statement or a loan statement:

• What’s the balance on my account? (What’s the total amount of money available?)
• I need to check my balance. Can you tell me what it is please?
• It’s important to balance your checkbook every month so that you know exactly how much money you have.
• The bank might charge you a fee if you have a negative balance.

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June 2, 2015