noun
plural -ances
[noncount] the state of having your weight spread equally so that you do not fall
In figurative use, to knock/throw someone off balance or keep someone off balance is to make someone feel unsure about how to behave or what to expect.
the ability to move or to remain in a position without losing control or falling
[singular] :a state in which different things occur in equal or proper amounts or have an equal or proper amount of importance
[count] :the amount of money in a bank account
[count] :the amount of money that still needs to be paid
c the balance :something that remains or is left over after other things have been done or used
[count] :a device that measures weight and shows how heavy things are :scale - see also checks and balances
in the balance
If something (such as your future) hangs in the balance or is in the balance, it is not certain but will soon be known or decided.
on balance
with all things considered :in general
tip the balance
verb
-ances; -anced; -ancing
to make (something, such as a plate or your body) steady by keeping weight equal on all sides [+ obj]
usually + on
[+ obj] :to adjust (an account or budget) so that the amount of money available is more than or equal to the amount of money that has been spent
to check and make adjustments to financial records so that they are accurate [+ obj]
[+ obj] :to make (different or opposite things) equal in strength or importance
[+ obj] :to make (a different or opposite thing) less powerful, noticeable, etc.
[+ obj] :to think about (different things) and decide which is better or more important - usually + against or with
balance out
[phrasal verb]
balance out (something) or balance (something) out :to make (a different or opposite thing) less powerful, noticeable, etc.
to be or become equal or even