desequilibrio
“desequilibrio” means “imbalance” in Spanish (general lack of stability).
imbalance
Also: instability, disparity
📝 In Action
Casi me caigo por un pequeño desequilibrio al caminar.
B1I almost fell because of a small loss of balance while walking.
Hay un desequilibrio evidente entre la oferta y la demanda.
B2There is an obvious mismatch between supply and demand.
El médico dice que tengo un desequilibrio hormonal.
B2The doctor says I have a hormonal imbalance.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: desequilibrio
Question 1 of 3
Which phrase describes someone having a difficult time emotionally?
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👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Formed by the prefix 'des-' (meaning 'undoing' or 'opposite') and the Latin word 'aequilibrium', which combines 'aequus' (equal) and 'libra' (balance/scales).
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'desequilibrio' only for physical objects?
No! While it can describe a wobbly table, it's very often used for abstract things like budgets, nature (ecología), and health.
What is the difference between 'desequilibrio' and 'inestabilidad'?
'Desequilibrio' usually implies a specific mismatch or lack of proportion, while 'inestabilidad' (instability) suggests something that might change or fall over at any moment.
Can I use 'desequilibrio' to describe a crazy person?
It's better to say someone 'tiene un desequilibrio mental' (has a mental imbalance). Calling someone 'un desequilibrado' (the adjective) can be quite insulting or clinical depending on the context.