balanced

[ bal-uhnst ]

adjective

1. fairly or equally containing a diversity of views, aspects, ingredients, activities, etc.:

   The course provides a balanced program of study in painting, design, sculpture, and ceramics.

   Some newspapers provided more balanced coverage of the conflict.

2. being in harmonious or proper arrangement or adjustment, proportion, etc.:

   These guidelines will help beginning photographers achieve a balanced composition in each shot.

   Synonyms: evenhanded, impartial, just, equitable, fair

3. (of a budget) showing enough revenue or income to cover all expenses:

   Our newly formed Finance Council will promote a balanced budget and long-range financial planning.

4. (of an investment portfolio) including investments of a variety of types or in a variety of sectors so as to maximize returns with a manageable level of risk:

   Stocks can help you achieve a balanced portfolio when combined with fixed-income investments such as bonds.

5. Football. pertaining to or noting an offensive line formation having three linemen on each side of the center. Compare unbalanced ( def 5 ).

balanced

/ ˈbælənst /

adjective

1. having weight evenly distributed; being in a state of equilibrium
2. (of a person) mentally and emotionally stable
3. (of a discussion, programme, etc) presenting opposing points of view fairly and without bias
4. (of a diet) consisting of all essential nutrients in suitable form and amounts to maintain health
5. (of a budget) having expenditure no greater than income
6. electronics (of signals or circuitry) symmetrically disposed about earth or other reference potential
7. (of a chemical equation) having the correct relative number of moles of reactants and products

Other Words From

• self-bal·anced adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of balanced¹

First recorded in 1585–95; balance + -ed ²

Example Sentences

But this suggestion has been dismissed by the Treasury, which said it had taken "a fair and balanced approach".

From BBC

Small and compact, always fit, Haynes balanced his sophisticated drumming with an equally stylish wardrobe.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Nesbitt's department got an additional £350m but he said that would leave him £100m short of a balanced budget.

From BBC

The northern Irishman balanced hosting BBC Radio 5 Live's raucous sport comedy panel show Fighting Talk with anchoring European football on Channel 5, before moving to precede Mark Chapman in the hot seat on Match of the Day 2.

From BBC

Fulham are always stronger at home, but they are a nicely balanced team and they have picked up a few points on the road too.

From BBC

Related Words

• equitable
• fair