The phrase "struck balance" refers to achieving an equilibrium or finding a compromise. The spelling of "struck" is /strʌk/, pronounced with a short vowel sound in the first syllable and an aspirated "k" at the end. The word "balance" is spelled /ˈbæl.əns/, with a primary stress on the first syllable and a secondary stress on the last syllable. The "a" in the second syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, while the "o" in the last syllable is pronounced with a short vowel sound. Together, the two words form a common phrase used in discussions of fairness and decision-making.
"Struck balance" refers to the act of achieving equilibrium or finding a harmonious middle ground between opposing forces, ideas, or situations. It is often used to describe the process of establishing a stable and favorable outcome by carefully considering and managing various factors.
When someone has "struck a balance," they have successfully determined the right mix or compromise that accommodates different interests or viewpoints. This concept of balance can be applied to a wide array of contexts, including personal relationships, work environments, or even societal matters.
In personal relationships, striking a balance involves finding a compromise that satisfies both individuals' needs and desires, fostering a healthy and harmonious partnership. In the workplace, achieving a struck balance can involve managing various priorities, such as striving for high productivity while maintaining a positive work-life balance for employees.
On a broader scale, struck balance can be crucial in societal issues, where it entails carefully navigating conflicting political, economic, or cultural viewpoints to reach a solution or policy that caters to diverse interests.
Overall, to strike a balance involves thoughtful consideration, negotiation, and sometimes compromise. It suggests finding a middle ground that respects different perspectives, promotes stability, and ensures overall satisfaction, be it in personal relationships, work dynamics, or broader societal matters.
The phrase "struck a balance" is not a specific word with an etymology. It is a combination of two separate words that have their own individual etymology.
"Struck" is the past tense of the verb "strike", which comes from the Old English word "strīcan". Its etymology traces back to the Proto-Germanic word "strikaną", meaning "to stroke, to rub". This word has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as the Middle Dutch "strijken" and the Old Norse "strykja".
"Balance", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "bilanx", which is a combination of "bis" meaning "twice" and "lanx" meaning "scale". The Latin word "bilanx" eventually evolved into the Old French word "balance", which then entered English.