# counterbalance

/ˈkaʊntɝˌbæɫəns/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/counterbalance
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

something that helps to balance out a strong feeling, idea, or force. It is like a weight on the other side of a scale to make things even.

For teachers: a person, thing, or action that serves to balance or neutralise a particular force, influence, or emotion. Often used in political or psychological contexts to describe a stabilising force.

## Examples

- The new law acts as a counterbalance to the previous one.
- In many democracies, an independent judiciary serves as a counterbalance to the power of the executive branch.
- The protagonist's internal monologue provides a necessary counterbalance to the frenetic action of the plot, allowing the reader to process the emotional stakes of the narrative.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.