How to choose between 均衡 and 平衡


Both `均衡{きんこう}` and `平衡{へいこう}` express equilibrium or balance. Both can be
used with the verb 保{たも}つ.

When is one more appropriate than the other?




Semantically both are rather close. It is more collocations that distinguish
them, so ultimately you have to learn when to use which phrase by phrase. For
example, equilibrium in economics is usually 均衡 and equilibrium in physics is
平衡.

A possible guideline is that 均衡 is a balance of multiple entities and 平衡 is
inner balance of a system. So the emphasis is on multiplicity of agents in
economics and on the system as a whole in physics (and other natural
sciences).

  * 精神の平衡 : _balance (peace) of mind_ Here mind is considered as a system.
  * 勢力の均衡 : _balance of power_ Meaning the balance (e.g.) among the nations.

I think practically 均衡 is more frequent unless you are a scientist.




Semantically both are rather close. It is more collocations that distinguish
them, so ultimately you have to learn when to use which phrase by phrase. For
example, equilibrium in economics is usually 均衡 and equilibrium in physics is
平衡.

A possible guideline is that 均衡 is a balance of multiple entities and 平衡 is
inner balance of a system. So the emphasis is on multiplicity of agents in
economics and on the system as a whole in physics (and other natural
sciences).

  * 精神の平衡 : _balance (peace) of mind_ Here mind is considered as a system.
  * 勢力の均衡 : _balance of power_ Meaning the balance (e.g.) among the nations.

I think practically 均衡 is more frequent unless you are a scientist.

