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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?
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2022-04-17T05:41:19.477
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word-choice
How to choose between 均衡 and 平衡
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.
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2022-04-17T07:29:22.400
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I'm basing my answer on this thread: <https://okwave.jp/qa/q4107038.html>

## 均衡

Describes the balance between concrete entities. For example:

  * 均衡財政 = Balanced finances (can be calculated by looking at income/expenditures, therefore it's concrete)
  * 地域間の均衡ある発展 = Balanced development between regions (the development can be measured in terms of infrastructure etc, therefore it's concrete)

## 平衡

Describes the balance between abstract things such as gases or liquids. For
example:

  * 精神の平衡を保つ = Maintain the balance of one's mind
  * 平衡熱 = Thermal equilibrium
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2022-04-17T07:40:52.933
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'均衡' is the balance among two or more things.

'平衡' is the balance of statuses inside of one thing.

However, we use '均衡' in most cases. '平衡' is too technical.
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2022-04-17T23:54:45.490
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均 divide .... equally  
平 level; even; flat status of equilibrium

均衡 divide something equally, so as to weigh evenly.

平衡 already being status of equilibrium or even
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