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How to Say "equilibrium" in Spanish

English → Spanish

equilibrio

e-ki-LEE-bree-ohe.kiˈli.βɾjo

nounA2general
Use 'equilibrio' when referring to physical balance, a state of stability, or a metaphorical sense of balance in life.
A tall stack of three smooth, colorful stones perfectly balanced on top of each other.

Examples

Perdí el equilibrio en la cuerda floja y me caí.

I lost my balance on the tightrope and fell.

Necesitas un buen equilibrio para patinar sobre hielo.

You need good balance to ice skate.

Masculine Noun

Remember that 'equilibrio' is always masculine, so you must use 'el' or 'un' with it: 'el equilibrio'.

Gender Error

Mistake: “La equilibrio”

Correction: El equilibrio. This word does not change genders.

balanza

bah-LAHN-sahbaˈlanθa

nounB2formal/figurative
Use 'balanza' when talking about political or social stability, often implying a tipping point or a weighing of factors.
A wooden plank balanced perfectly on a central stone, with a small colorful bird sitting on each end to show equilibrium.

Examples

Su testimonio inclinó la balanza a favor del acusado.

His testimony tipped the scales in favor of the accused.

Debemos mantener la balanza entre el trabajo y la familia.

We must maintain the balance between work and family.

La balanza comercial del país es positiva este trimestre.

The country's trade balance is positive this quarter.

Abstract Use

When used abstractly, it functions just like the English word 'scales' in the sense of justice or decision-making.

Balance vs. Balanza

Mistake: “Using 'balanza' to mean a 'bank balance'.”

Correction: Use 'saldo' for bank accounts. 'Balanza' is for comparing two sides or trade totals.

General Balance vs. Political/Social Stability

Learners often mistakenly use 'balanza' for everyday physical balance. Remember that 'equilibrio' is the go-to word for physical stability or a general sense of balance, while 'balanza' is reserved for metaphorical situations of social or political equilibrium.

Related Translations

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