offset
Counterbalance or compensate for something with an opposing action
Examples
In a meeting
“The savings in production will offset the marketing costs.”
Over coffee
“My morning walk offsets all the coffee I drink.”
Why this word
balance
offset implies one thing counteracting another specific thing, while balance is more general equilibrium
compensate
offset suggests direct counteraction of equal magnitude, while compensate can mean making up for something in various ways
neutralize
offset maintains both elements present but balanced, while neutralize implies eliminating the effect entirely
Usage tip
Use when one thing neutralizes or compensates for another, creating balance
Etymology
English 'off' + 'set' (to place), originally a surveying and printing term
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Related words
temper
To moderate or soften something, making it less extreme
compensate
To make up for something unwelcome by providing a counterbalancing benefit; to pay someone for work.
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
streamline
To make a process or system more efficient by simplifying or eliminating unnecessary steps.
delegate
To assign a task or responsibility to someone else.
validate
To confirm that something is correct, sound, or meets requirements.