on balance

Idioms  

1. Taking everything into consideration, as in On balance I think we've had a very good year. This expression, which in effect means “balancing all the factors involved,” was first recorded in 1719.

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Example Sentences

The millennial feminist movement also, on balance, did far more good than harm.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

Yet launching a conversation around mental health with an audience magnet as powerful as Radcliffe is on balance an excellent thing.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 12, 2026

“Warsh has been amongst the most market-friendly candidates, as he is a former Fed governor with a history of hawkish views, especially on balance sheet reduction,” he added.

From Barron's • Jan. 30, 2026

Some analysts said China, on balance, has reacted soberly, reflecting uncertainty ahead and a limited appetite to challenge the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 5, 2026

Does helping one person really matter, on balance?

From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black