Valance vs. Balance: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 10, 2023
Valance refers to a piece of fabric for decorating windows, while Balance relates to an even distribution of weight enabling steadiness.
Key Differences
A valance is a piece of decorative drapery hung above a window to conceal its frame, portraying a primarily aesthetic function. Conversely, balance, in a general context, refers to an equal distribution of weight, promoting stability and equilibrium in physical objects or aspects of life.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
In the realm of interior design, a valance adds a finishing touch, providing a polished look to a window treatment, often with no impact on the window's functionality. However, balance in design refers to arranging elements such that no single feature overpowers others, establishing a cohesive and harmonious look.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
In chemistry, a valance (often spelled "valence") describes the capacity of an atom to bond with others, indicating its combining power. In a financial context, balance denotes the amount of money held in an account, reflecting the total of credits minus debits.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
An electron valance shell in atoms describes the outermost shell involved in forming bonds with other atoms, contributing to the stability and reactivity of the element. Balance, when referring to a tool, describes a device for weighing objects, often consisting of a beam and attached scales.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
While valance is specific in its definitions and applications, primarily related to decor and atomic chemistry, balance extends its relevance to various contexts, including physical stability, aesthetics in design, financial status, and mental equilibrium.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 10, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Primary Meaning
A piece of fabric for window decoration
Even distribution of weight
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Contextual Usage
Mostly in interior design or atomic chemistry
Various contexts, including finance and design
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
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Valance and Balance Definitions
Valance
In chemistry, the combining capacity of an atom.
The valance of hydrogen is one.
Harlon Moss
Oct 10, 2023
Balance
A state of equilibrium or equal distribution.
The gymnast maintained her balance on the beam.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
Valance
A decorative drapery above windows.
She chose a lace valance for the kitchen window.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
Balance
Remaining amount in a financial account.
The account balance is insufficient for the purchase.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
Valance
(British) A short curtain or piece of drapery.
A floral valance adorned the four-poster bed.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
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Balance
Mental or emotional stability.
Finding work-life balance is essential for wellbeing.
Janet White
Oct 10, 2023
Valance
An ornamental drapery hung across a top edge, as of a bed, table, or canopy.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
A short drapery, decorative board, or metal strip mounted especially across the top of a window to conceal structural fixtures.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
A weighing device, especially one consisting of a rigid beam horizontally suspended by a low-friction support at its center, with identical weighing pans hung at either end, one of which holds an unknown weight while the effective weight in the other is increased by known amounts until the beam is level and motionless. Also called scale.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
A state of equilibrium or parity characterized by cancellation of all forces by equal opposing forces.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
The power or means to decide
Matters that fell outside the judge's balance.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
A decorative framework used to conceal the curtain mechanism and so on at the top of a window.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
(bedding) A short, decorative edging of cloth that hangs from beneath the mattress to the floor used to conceal the boxspring or space under the bed and prevent dust from accumulating there.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
The ability to maintain bodily equilibrium
Gymnasts must have good balance.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
A short, decorative edging of cloth that conceals the legs of a couch, sofa, etc.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
A harmonious or satisfying arrangement or proportion of parts or elements, as in a design.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
The drooping edging of the lid of a trunk, which covers the joint when the lid is closed.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
Hanging drapery for a bed, couch, window, or the like, especially that which hangs around a bedstead, from the bed to the floor.
Valance of Venice gold in needlework.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
The drooping edging of the lid of a trunk, which covers the joint when the lid is closed.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
To furnish with a valance; to decorate with hangings or drapery.
His old fringed chair valanced around with party-colored worsted bobs.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
The difference between such totals, either on the credit or the debit side.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
A decorative framework to conceal curtain fixtures at the top of a window casing
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
An outermost electron shell.
The valance shell of helium is complete with two electrons.
Janet White
Oct 10, 2023
Balance
(Chemistry) Equality of mass and net electric charge of reacting species on each side of an equation.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Valance
A horizontal piece in a bed, hiding the bed base.
A striped valance covered the bed base elegantly.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Balance
(Mathematics) Equality with respect to the net number of reduced symbolic quantities on each side of an equation.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To consider and compare or assess
Balanced the pros and cons before making a choice.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To compute the difference between the debits and credits of (an account).
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To reconcile or equalize the sums of the debits and credits of (an account).
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(uncountable) A state in which opposing forces harmonise; equilibrium.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(uncountable) Mental equilibrium; mental health; calmness, a state of remaining clear-headed and unperturbed.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
Something of equal weight used to provide equilibrium; counterweight.
These weights are used as a balance for the overhanging verandah
Blair thought he could provide a useful balance to Bush's policies.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(uncountable) Awareness of both viewpoints or matters; neutrality; rationality; objectivity.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(uncountable) The overall result of conflicting forces, opinions etc.; the influence which ultimately "weighs" more than others.
The balance of power finally lay with the Royalist forces.
I think the balance of opinion is that we should get out while we're ahead.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(uncountable) Apparent harmony in art (between differing colours, sounds, etc.).
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(accounting) A list accounting for the debits on one side, and for the credits on the other.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(accounting) The result of such a procedure; the difference between credit and debit of an account.
I just need to nip to a bank and check my balance.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(watchmaking) A device used to regulate the speed of a watch, clock etc.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
The remainder.
The balance of the agreement remains in effect.
The invoice said he had only paid $50. The balance was $220.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(transitive) To bring (items) to an equipoise, as the scales of a balance by adjusting the weights.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(transitive) To hold (an object or objects) precariously; to support on a narrow base, so as to keep from falling.
I balanced my mug of coffee on my knee.
The circus performer balances a plate on the end of a baton.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(transitive) To compare in relative force, importance, value, etc.; to estimate.
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Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(nautical) To contract, as a sail, into a narrower compass.
To balance the boom mainsail
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(transitive) To make the credits and debits of (an account) correspond.
This final payment, or credit, balances the account.
To balance a set of books
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
Act of weighing mentally; comparison; estimate.
A fair balance of the advantages on either side.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
The state of being in equipoise; equilibrium; even adjustment; steadiness.
And hung a bottle on each sideTo make his balance true.
The order and balance of the country were destroyed.
English workmen completely lose their balance.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
An equality between the sums total of the two sides of an account; as, to bring one's accounts to a balance; - also, the excess on either side; as, the balance of an account.
I still think the balance of probabilities leans towards the account given in the text.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
A balance wheel, as of a watch, or clock. See Balance wheel (in the Vocabulary).
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To bring to an equipoise, as the scales of a balance by adjusting the weights; to weigh in a balance.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To support on a narrow base, so as to keep from falling; as, to balance a plate on the end of a cane; to balance one's self on a tight rope.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To equal in number, weight, force, or proportion; to counterpoise, counterbalance, counteract, or neutralize.
One expression . . . must check and balance another.
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Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To compare in relative force, importance, value, etc.; to estimate.
Balance the good and evil of things.
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Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To settle and adjust, as an account; to make two accounts equal by paying the difference between them.
I am very well satisfied that it is not in my power to balance accounts with my Maker.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To make the sums of the debits and credits of an account equal; - said of an item; as, this payment, or credit, balances the account.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To arrange accounts in such a way that the sum total of the debits is equal to the sum total of the credits; as, to balance a set of books.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To move toward, and then back from, reciprocally; as, to balance partners.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To contract, as a sail, into a narrower compass; as, to balance the boom mainsail.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To have equal weight on each side; to be in equipoise; as, the scales balance.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To fluctuate between motives which appear of equal force; to waver; to hesitate.
He would not balance or err in the determination of his choice.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
Equality between the totals of the credit and debit sides of an account
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
Harmonious arrangement or relation of parts or elements within a whole (as in a design);
In all perfectly beautiful objects there is found the opposition of one part to another and a reciprocal balance
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
Something left after other parts have been taken away;
There was no remainder
He threw away the rest
He took what he wanted and I got the balance
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
The difference between the totals of the credit and debit sides of an account
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
The seventh sign of the zodiac; the sun is in this sign from about September 23 to October 22
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
(mathematics) an attribute of a shape or relation; exact correspondence of form on opposite sides of a dividing line or plane
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
A wheel that regulates the rate of movement in a machine; especially a wheel oscillating against the hairspring of a timepiece to regulate its beat
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
Bring into balance or equilibrium;
She has to balance work and her domestic duties
Balance the two weights
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 12, 2022
Balance
To distribute weight to maintain stability.
Balance the scales to ensure accurate measurements.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 10, 2023
Balance
Counteract or offset.
He donated to charity to balance his carbon footprint.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
FAQs
What does balance mean in a financial context?
In finance, balance refers to the amount of money in an account after adding all credits and subtracting all debits.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Can balance relate to mental health?
Yes, balance can refer to maintaining mental and emotional stability.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
Can valance refer to an atomic concept?
Yes, valance can describe an electron shell or an atom's combining capacity in chemistry.
Harlon Moss
Oct 10, 2023
What does it mean to lose one’s balance?
Losing balance means becoming unstable and potentially falling or failing to remain upright.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
Can valance relate to chemistry?
Yes, valance can describe an atom's ability to bond with others, and also refers to the outermost electron shell.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Does a valance have a functional purpose?
Typically, a valance is used for decorative purposes rather than functional.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Are valances always fabric?
Generally, yes. Valances are typically made of fabric and used for decorative purposes in interior design.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Are valances outdated?
Valances are traditional, but their popularity in interior design can vary over time and by personal preference.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
How does one achieve balance in life?
Achieving life balance involves managing personal, professional, and recreational activities to maintain overall well-being.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
Is a valance always visible?
Usually, yes. Valances are often used to add decorative appeal and are meant to be seen.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Can you balance a diet?
Yes, a balanced diet means consuming the right proportion of various nutrients.
Harlon Moss
Oct 10, 2023
Why is balance important in exercise?
Balance in exercise prevents injuries, enhances coordination, and provides an effective workout.
Janet White
Oct 10, 2023
Can balance be used as a verb?
Yes, "balance" can be a verb, e.g., to balance weights or to balance a budget.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 10, 2023
How does balance apply in design?
Balance in design involves arranging elements to ensure no single part overwhelms the rest, creating a harmonious look.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Does balance always mean 50:50 distribution?
Not necessarily. Balance means an even or harmonious distribution, which may not always be 50:50.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
Does valance have different spellings?
In chemical contexts, it's often spelled "valence".
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Can a valance be used in kitchens?
Yes, valances can be used in any room, including kitchens, to decorate windows.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 10, 2023
Is it possible to balance work and leisure?
Yes, with effective time management and prioritization, one can balance work and leisure.
Janet White
Oct 10, 2023
Can a bed have a valance?
Yes, beds can have valances, which are pieces of fabric that skirt the bed base.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Is a valance similar to curtains?
A valance is like a short curtain, primarily for decoration, placed above the main curtains or blinds.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
