balance of power

American  

noun

1. a distribution and opposition of forces among nations such that no single nation is strong enough to assert its will or dominate all the others.

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balance of power British  

noun

1. the distribution of power among countries so that no one nation can seriously threaten the fundamental interests of another

2. any similar distribution of power or influence

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balance of power Cultural  

1. A state of peace that results when rival nations are equally powerful and therefore have no good reason to wage war.

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Etymology

Origin of balance of power

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

But, in effect, this radically tipped the balance of power in favor of a series of headstrong police chiefs, who sought to insulate the department from political interference.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

That means "a favourable but durable balance of power in which no state, including China, can impose its hegemony and hold the security or prosperity of our nation and our allies in question", he added.

From Barron's • May 30, 2026

Some would see this as a sign that the balance of power is shifting in China's direction.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

Every shipment that makes it across the desert blunts the pressure from a closed strait and gives Gulf governments room to wait out the negotiations and shift the balance of power.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

During those times when Italy enjoyed a balance of power to a certain extent, this advice may have been a good policy.

From "The Prince" by Niccolò Machiavelli