釣り合い

• Reading: つりあい
• Romaji: tsuriai
• Kanji breakdown: 釣 (tsuri) — fish, hang, balance; 合 (ai) — match, fit together
• Pronunciation: /tsɯ.ɾi.a.i/

Meaning

Balance; equilibrium. A state where opposing forces or elements are evenly matched.

A noun derived from the verb 釣り合う (to be balanced/proportionate). Used for physical balance, social compatibility, and proportional relationships. Common expressions include 釣り合いが取れる (to be well-balanced) and 釣り合いがとれない (to be unbalanced). Also used to describe whether a couple is a good match socially or in appearance.

Examples

1. 収入と支出の釣り合いを考えて生活している。 I manage my life by keeping my income and expenses in balance.
2. この絵は左右の釣り合いがうまく取れている。 This painting has a great balance between the left and right sides.
3. 二人は性格の釣り合いがよく、いいカップルだ。 The two have well-matched personalities — they make a great couple.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, relationships, art, economics

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From 釣り (tsuri, fishing/hanging) + 合い (ai, matching/fitting). Originally described the balanced state of a scale or hanging weight, where two sides hang evenly. Extended metaphorically to any state of equilibrium.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal