Moderate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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moderate
[ˈmɒdərət ]
Definitions
in a meeting
Being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme.
Synonyms
fair, modest, reasonable, temperate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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moderate |
Useful when describing something that is average in intensity, amount, or degree, often pleasantly so.
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reasonable |
Proper for situations where something is based on good sense, logic, or is within acceptable limits.
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temperate |
Suitable for describing something that is moderate or self-restrained, particularly climate or someone's behavior.
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modest |
Appropriate when referring to something that is moderate in size, amount, or degree and when describing someone who does not boast or show off.
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fair |
Best used when describing something that is just, unbiased, or reasonable, often concerning treatment or judgment.
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Examples of usage
- The moderator asked for moderate responses from the participants.
- She took a moderate approach to solving the conflict.
temperature
To make or become less extreme, intense, or violent.
Synonyms
lessen, mitigate, reduce, temper.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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moderate |
Appropriate for controlling or regulating intensity or extremeness, often used in discussions regarding behavior, speed, or climate.
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lessen |
Best used when referring to reducing the quantity, degree, or severity of something. Often used in medical, financial, or emotional contexts.
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reduce |
General word for making something smaller in size, amount, number, or degree. Works well in almost any context from dieting to expenses.
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mitigate |
Commonly used in formal contexts such as law, risk management, or when discussing natural disasters. It's about making something less severe or serious.
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temper |
Often used metaphorically to mean moderating or softening something harsh. Frequently found in discussions about emotions or reactions.
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Examples of usage
- He tried to moderate his anger.
- The weather is expected to moderate tomorrow.
politics
A person who holds moderate views, especially in politics.
Synonyms
centrist, middle-of-the-road, moderating.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
moderate |
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.
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centrist |
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.
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moderating |
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.
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middle-of-the-road |
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.
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Examples of usage
- He is known as a moderate who seeks compromise.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that moderate levels of stress can actually enhance performance, known as the Yerkes-Dodson law.
- Moderation in behavior can lead to better mental health outcomes, fostering resilience against anxiety and depression.
- Practicing moderation is linked to a balanced lifestyle, which is associated with greater longevity and well-being.
Politics
- In political contexts, moderates are those who seek compromise and avoid extreme positions or revolutions.
- Moderate parties often emphasize civil discourse to find common ground among differing viewpoints.
- Historically, many reforms in democracies arose from moderate factions wanting to prevent extremes.
Health
- Dietitians often advise a moderate intake of various food groups to ensure balanced nutrition.
- Moderation in alcohol consumption can lead to better health outcomes than heavy drinking or total abstinence.
- Exercise recommendations often suggest moderate activity levels rather than vigorous workouts for general health.
Culture
- In art, moderation can lead to more balanced compositions, avoiding chaos and excess that overwhelm the viewer.
- Many philosophies and religions promote moderation as a moral virtue, advising followers to avoid excess and extremes.
- Culturally, moderation can be reflected in communal values that emphasize harmony and cooperation over conflict.
Origin of 'moderate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'moderatus' which means 'restrained' or 'limited'.
- It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century to describe someone who avoids extremes.
- Historically, it was often associated with the idea of temperance in behavior and consumption.
The word 'moderate' originated from the Latin word 'moderatus', which means 'restrained'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. Over time, 'moderate' has been used to describe things that are within reasonable limits, not extreme or excessive. The term is commonly used in various contexts, including politics, weather, and behavior.