English Reference

Word

balanced

Phoneticsbal·anced, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈbæɫənst/

UK/bˈælənst/

Definitions

01steady and stable

B1 · Intermediate

adj. kept in a steady position so that it does not fall.

adj. physically stable and in a state of equilibrium so as to prevent tipping or falling.

“The gymnast stayed perfectly balanced on the wooden beam.”

“The sculpture remained perfectly balanced on its narrow pedestal, despite the vibrations from the passing traffic outside the gallery.”

02fair and impartial

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. considering all sides of an issue fairly and equally.

adj. presenting or considering various points of view in an impartial and fair manner.

“The newspaper gave a balanced report on the new law.”

“The documentary provided a balanced perspective on the conflict, giving equal screen time to representatives from both opposing factions.”

Antonyms

biasedone-sided

03healthy proportions

B1 · Intermediate

adj. having different parts or ingredients in the correct amounts.

adj. consisting of different elements in the correct or effective proportions.

“A balanced diet includes plenty of fruit and vegetables.”

“The architect achieved a balanced design by mirroring the window placements on both wings of the building.”

Antonyms

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “balanced” in context.

Verb

01. keep something balanced

“You need to keep the load balanced on the truck so it doesn't tip over during the turn.”

verb + noun + adj

02. remain balanced

“Despite the criticism, the politician managed to remain balanced and calm during the debate.”

verb + adj

Adjective

03. balanced approach

“We need to take a balanced approach to economic growth and environmental protection.”

adj + noun

04. balanced diet

“Eating a balanced diet is essential for maintaining long-term health and energy levels.”

adj + noun

05. balanced view

“The documentary provides a balanced view of the conflict by interviewing people from both sides.”

adj + noun

06. perfectly balanced

“The chef created a sauce that was perfectly balanced between sweet and sour flavors.”

adv + adj

Noun

07. balanced budget

“The government is struggling to present a balanced budget for the next fiscal year.”

adj + noun

Real-World Examples

“Water that rises in one part of the ocean has to be balanced by water sinking somewhere else.”
BBC News 14 Jul 2026
“But it also found that has to be balanced with "overuse." He pointed to offices—like his—which are cooled so much that many workers wear sweaters even in the summer.”
Phys.org 31 Aug 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Common
Level
B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/balanced

English Reference