Meaning
To find a compromise or middle ground between two extremes
Primary Function
Verb-noun collocation for expressing compromise
Communicative Purpose
To indicate harmonious reconciliation of opposites
Pattern
strike a balance
Core Structure
strike a balance
Função primária
Verb-noun collocation for expressing compromise
Propósito comunicativo
To indicate harmonious reconciliation of opposites
Situações de gatilho
Negotiations, policy-making, resource allocation
Contextos
Professional settings (business, diplomacy), everyday conversation, academic writing
Padrão
strike a balance
Estrutura central
strike a balance
Slots de substituição
adjectives (right, fine, delicate, appropriate) can modify "balance"; an optional prepositional phrase "between … and …" can follow
Colocados típicos
- right
- proper
- delicate
- fine
- appropriate
Substituições comuns
- find a balance
- achieve a balance
Erros comuns
*make a balance, *keep a balance (possible but not idiomatic in this sense)
Similar / contraste
find a happy medium, reach a compromise
Interferências
The collocation is fixed; ‘strike’ must be used as the verb indicating effortful negotiation.
Família do chunk
- find a middle ground
- hit the sweet spot
- achieve equilibrium
Nuance
'Strike' implies intentional effort rather than passive adjustment.
Efeito pragmático
Diplomatic and solution‑oriented tone, signaling balanced decision‑making.
Dica de memória
You have to strike a balance between work and play.
Nota
This chunk is commonly used in contexts where a compromise needs to be found, emphasizing the effort to harmonize opposing factors.
Upgrade path
balance → find a compromise → strike a delicate balance
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