Basic Details
Word: Counterbalance
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To balance or offset one thing against another.
Synonyms: Counteract, offset, neutralise
Antonyms: Disbalance, disturb, perturb
Idioms and Phrases
- Counterbalance the scales: To make things equal or fair. Example: "We need to counterbalance the scales by giving everyone an equal opportunity."
- Strike a balance: To find a compromise or get an equal result. Example: "He struggled to strike a balance between his work and family life."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The company decided to counterbalance the increased prices by offering discounts to loyal customers.
Example 2: To counterbalance the heavy workload, the manager hired an additional team member.
Example 3: To counterbalance the gloomy weather, we organised an indoor picnic to lift everyone's spirits.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "counterbalance" comes from the combination of "counter," meaning opposite, and "balance," which refers to a state of equilibrium? It has been used since the 14th century!
Famous Quote
"We must balance conspicuous consumption with conscious capitalism." Kevin McCarthy
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "counterbalance" mean?
a) To exaggerate something
b) To make things equal or offset one against another
c) To ignore a situation
d) To create a problem
Answer: b) To make things equal or offset one against another
2. Which of these is a synonym of "counterbalance"?
a) Disturb
b) Counteract
c) Create
d) Initiate
Answer: b) Counteract
3. What is an antonym of "counterbalance"?
a) Offset
b) Neutralise
c) Disturb
d) Neutral
Answer: c) Disturb
4. Which sentence uses "counterbalance" correctly?
a) She tried to counterbalance her excitement with a calm face.
b) He counterbalanced the car by adding more fuel.
c) They decided to counterbalance their friendship.
d) The puppy was cute enough to counterbalance her sadness by itself.
Answer: a) She tried to counterbalance her excitement with a calm face.
5. Which idiom relates to the idea of counterbalancing?
a) Strike a balance
b) Reach for the stars
c) Cry over spilled milk
d) Beat around the bush
Answer: a) Strike a balance
