The phrase "on balance" is commonly used to denote a decision that has been made after considering all the pros and cons. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ɒn ˈbæləns/, where the first sound is the short o, followed by the consonant cluster n-b, and the vowel sound a, pronounced as in cat. The final syllable has the same vowel sound and is pronounced with the l sound followed by the consonant cluster n-s, as in the word balance. Knowing its IPA transcription helps to understand the spelling of the word, which can be confusing for non-native speakers of English.
The phrase "on balance" is an idiomatic expression used to indicate a judgment or conclusion after weighing the different aspects or factors of a situation. It implies considering both the positive and negative elements to arrive at an overall assessment. It suggests a thorough evaluation that takes into account all relevant factors to form a balanced perspective.
In a general sense, "on balance" refers to the process of carefully examining all aspects of a subject matter, weighing the evidence, and forming an opinion or verdict. It suggests a thoughtful approach that considers the net effect or outcome taking into consideration both advantages and disadvantages.
The phrase can be used in various contexts. For instance, in a political context, it denotes a fair and objective evaluation of the policies or actions of a government, party, or leader. In economics, it can refer to an assessment of the overall effect of a particular economic situation or policy on various stakeholders. In personal decision-making, being "on balance" means considering all relevant factors before making a choice.
Furthermore, "on balance" can also imply a comparison or assessment of conflicting opinions, evidence, or arguments in an attempt to reach a reasonable and fair conclusion. It is often used to emphasize the importance of weighing the pros and cons, considering all relevant factors, and avoiding biases or undue influence when making a judgment or decision.
The word "balance" originated from the Latin word "bilanx", which means "having two pans". In English, it eventually came to refer to the state of equilibrium or equality between two opposing forces. The phrase "on balance" emerged as a way to express the idea of considering all the factors or evidence on both sides of an issue and determining a final judgment or assessment. It conveys the notion of weighing all the information before making a decision or forming an opinion.