Moderate: meaning, definitions and examples

Useful when describing something that is average in intensity, amount, or degree, often pleasantly so.

• The weather was moderate, neither too hot nor too cold.
• She has moderate political views.

Proper for situations where something is based on good sense, logic, or is within acceptable limits.

• The price for the car is reasonable.
• She made a reasonable argument during the debate.

Suitable for describing something that is moderate or self-restrained, particularly climate or someone's behavior.

• The climate in that region is temperate.
• He is known for his temperate habits.

Appropriate when referring to something that is moderate in size, amount, or degree and when describing someone who does not boast or show off.

• Their house is modest but comfortable.
• He is very modest about his accomplishments.

Best used when describing something that is just, unbiased, or reasonable, often concerning treatment or judgment.

• The teacher was fair in grading all the students.
• It was a fair decision considering all the facts.

Appropriate for controlling or regulating intensity or extremeness, often used in discussions regarding behavior, speed, or climate.

• She moderated her tone during the debate to appear more composed
• The weather typically moderates in spring

Best used when referring to reducing the quantity, degree, or severity of something. Often used in medical, financial, or emotional contexts.

• He took medication to lessen his pain
• The company aims to lessen its environmental impact

General word for making something smaller in size, amount, number, or degree. Works well in almost any context from dieting to expenses.

• They aim to reduce waste in their manufacturing process
• She needs to reduce her screen time

Commonly used in formal contexts such as law, risk management, or when discussing natural disasters. It's about making something less severe or serious.

• Measures were taken to mitigate the effects of the storm
• An apology was made to mitigate any hard feelings

Often used metaphorically to mean moderating or softening something harsh. Frequently found in discussions about emotions or reactions.

• He tried to temper his anger with patience
• The enthusiasm for the new project was tempered by budget constraints

Use "moderate" when describing someone or something that avoids extremes and takes a balanced approach. It is often used in political contexts to describe someone's views or stance.

• She holds moderate political views, neither too liberal nor too conservative.
• We need to find a moderate solution that everyone can agree on.

Use "centrist" specifically in political contexts to describe someone whose views are in the middle of the political spectrum. It often denotes a position that is neither left-wing nor right-wing.

• He is a centrist who believes in finding common ground between different political parties.
• The new policy appeals to centrist voters who are tired of the polarization.

Use "moderating" when referring to the action of making something less extreme or intense. This word is often used in contexts like discussions, debates, or even environmental conditions.

• She played a key role in moderating the debate between the two candidates.
• The weather is moderating, with temperatures becoming more comfortable.

Use "middle-of-the-road" to describe someone or something that takes a moderate and non-extreme position, often used informally. This term can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation of being indecisive or not innovative.

• His opinions are very middle-of-the-road, avoiding controversy at all costs.
• The movie was a middle-of-the-road comedy, pleasant but not particularly memorable.