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

See Examples For:

on balance

Overall, the estimated value of portfolio companies that haven’t been sold totaled $3.91 trillion as of September 2025, locking up 74% of all North American private-equity assets on balance sheets, according to Preqin.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 22, 2026

In terms of longer-term trends Abouhossein argues that investment banking generally is transforming as a business model from a heavy emphasis on balance sheet and inventory, to something lighter and more geared to best-execution practices.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 22, 2026

Red Bull have been the fourth fastest car on balance this season, but a big upgrade for this race brought them into the fight at the front.

From BBC ● Jun. 28, 2026

The good versions — the deeply custardy ones with crisp edges and pockets of surprise throughout — rely on balance, responsiveness and a little bit of nerve.

From Salon ● May 25, 2026

Harry didn’t want to miss the fun, but Uncle Vernon’s second ornament narrowly missed his left ear, and on balance he thought it best to leave the situation to Mr. Weasley.

From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling