Grammar fix
on balance
weighing it up
Used to introduce a conclusion or opinion after considering all the main points or arguments, especially when there are both positives and negatives.
expressionC1occasional
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- On balance, I think moving to a bigger city was the right decision for my career.daily life
- On balance, I believe technology has improved our lives, even though it does create some new challenges. The benefits, like easier communication and access to information, generally outweigh the drawbacks.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: on balance, [clause]
WrongIn balance, I think it's a good idea.
RightOn balance, I think it's a good idea.
The fixed phrase is 'ON balance', not 'in balance'.
Patternon balance, [clause]
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'On balance' neatly signals a weighed-up conclusion; the long formal version is heavy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
on balance + opinionI thinkit's betterI'd saythe pros outweigh
Don't confuse it
'On balance' is used for final conclusions after weighing pros and cons, while 'all things considered' is broader and can be used for general summaries.