Which term describes formal balance in design?

The term that describes formal balance in design is symmetry. Symmetry refers to a balanced and harmonious arrangement of elements on either side of a central axis, creating a feeling of stability and order. This visual equilibrium gives a design a polished and organized appearance, making it appealing and easy to understand.

When a design is symmetrical, it can often evoke feelings of comfort and formality, as it is a familiar structure that we encounter frequently in nature and architectural forms. This concept is widely utilized in various fields of design, from graphic design to architecture, to ensure that compositions feel balanced and aesthetically pleasing.

On the other hand, terms like proportion relate to the relative size of elements within a design rather than their arrangement, while asymmetry refers to a lack of balance that can create more dynamic and energetic designs but does not focus on formal balance. Misalignment indicates a disorganized arrangement of elements, which is the opposite of what symmetry achieves in design.