Jämviktlig

Jämviktlig is a Swedish adjective meaning in equilibrium or in a state of balance. It describes a system, process, or object that has reached a balance between opposing influences, forces, or reaction rates. The word is formed from the noun jämvikt (equilibrium) with the suffix -lig, which indicates a quality or characteristic.

Etymology and usage notes: The root jämvikt combines elements meaning equal balance, and the suffix -lig turns it into an adjective describing something that possesses that quality. In everyday language, jämviktlig is most common in technical or scientific contexts, but it can be used more broadly to denote balance or stability in a given situation.

Fields of use: In chemistry, a system that has reached chemical equilibrium is described as jämviktlig; the forward and reverse reaction rates are equal, and concentrations of reactants and products remain constant. In physics and engineering, a body or structure in static balance is described as being in jämvikt, or as having a jämviktlig state. In economics and social sciences, jämvikt describes markets or situations where competing pressures such as supply and demand balance out, and the system tends toward stability. The term emphasizes a qualitative sense of balance rather than a precise, dynamic measurement.

Limitations and nuance: Jämviktlig is primarily a technical term and may sound formal in everyday speech. When speaking colloquially, speakers often use phrases like i jämvikt (in equilibrium) or balancerad (balanced) instead of the adjectival form.

See also: jämvikt, kemisk jämvikt, statisk jämvikt, dynamisk jämvikt, jämviktsläge.