balanza
“balanza” means “scale” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
scale
Also: balance
📝 In Action
Puse los tomates en la balanza para saber el precio.
A1I put the tomatoes on the scale to find out the price.
Esta balanza de cocina es muy exacta.
A2This kitchen scale is very accurate.
En el laboratorio usamos una balanza de precisión.
B1In the lab, we use a precision balance.
balance
Also: equilibrium
📝 In Action
Su testimonio inclinó la balanza a favor del acusado.
B2His testimony tipped the scales in favor of the accused.
Debemos mantener la balanza entre el trabajo y la familia.
B2We must maintain the balance between work and family.
La balanza comercial del país es positiva este trimestre.
C1The country's trade balance is positive this quarter.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: balanza
Question 1 of 3
Which word would you use to weigh yourself in the bathroom?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Late Latin word 'bilanx', which comes from 'bi-' (two) and 'lanx' (plate or tray). It literally means 'having two plates'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'balanza' for my bank account?
No, for the amount of money in your bank account, use the word 'saldo'. 'Balanza' is for weighing objects or comparing economic totals like imports and exports.
What is the difference between 'balanza' and 'peso'?
'Balanza' is the physical device used for weighing. 'Peso' is the actual weight of the object, though in some countries, people use 'peso' informally to refer to the device itself.
Is 'balanza' used the same way in all Spanish-speaking countries?
Yes, it is universally understood. However, some regions might favor 'báscula' or just 'el peso' for grocery shopping, but 'balanza' is always correct for a precision scale.