English Reference

Word

balancing

Phoneticsbal·anc·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈbæɫənsɪŋ/

UK/bˈælənsɪŋ/

Definitions

01physical stability

B1 · Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the act of keeping yourself or an object steady so it does not fall over.

n. the physical act of maintaining equilibrium or stability to prevent falling or tilting.

“The acrobat's balancing on the thin wire amazed the crowd at the circus.”

“The careful balancing of the heavy crates on the small boat was essential to prevent the vessel from capsizing in the rough harbour waters.”

Synonyms

stabilizingsteadying

Antonyms

02managing different needs

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the effort to give the right amount of time or importance to different parts of your life.

n. the conceptual process of weighing and reconciling competing interests, duties, or factors.

“The balancing of work and family life is a challenge for many parents.”

“The government faced a difficult balancing of economic growth against the urgent need for stricter environmental protections.”

Antonyms

Collocations

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

01. balancing act

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.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL 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: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference