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Temperance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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temperance

[ˈtɛmp(ə)rəns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

moderation

Temperance is the practice of avoiding excess, especially in regards to alcohol consumption. It is the act of self-control and moderation in one's behavior and habits.

Synonyms

abstinence, moderation, restraint.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
temperance

Used to describe a balanced and moderate approach to life, especially regarding alcohol consumption.

  • She practiced temperance by only drinking alcohol on special occasions.
  • Temperance was a key principle in his approach to healthy living.
moderation

Indicates a balanced and measured approach to consuming or doing something, without extreme excesses. Commonly used in day-to-day contexts to advise balance.

  • Eating in moderation is key to maintaining a healthy diet.
  • She believes in living life in moderation, avoiding both extremes.
restraint

Emphasizes self-control and the ability to hold back desires or impulses. It can apply broadly but often suggests a conscious effort to limit oneself.

  • Showing restraint, he declined the second helping of dessert.
  • His restraint in spending saved him from financial trouble.
abstinence

Refers to the complete avoidance of certain activities or substances, often for moral, religious, or health reasons. It tends to have a more stringent or disciplined connotation.

  • He chose abstinence from junk food to improve his health.
  • Their religious beliefs encouraged abstinence from alcohol.

Examples of usage

  • His temperance in drinking alcohol allowed him to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
  • She practiced temperance by limiting her dessert intake to once a week.
Context #2 | Noun

virtue

Temperance is also considered a virtue, representing the ability to control one's desires and impulses for the greater good. It is often associated with wisdom and self-discipline.

Synonyms

moderation, self-control, sobriety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
temperance

Often used in historical or philosophical discussions about restraint and self-discipline, especially in avoiding alcohol.

  • The temperance movement in the 19th century aimed to reduce alcohol consumption.
  • His temperance in spending money is admirable.
self-control

Refers to the ability to control one's emotions, desires, or actions, often in the face of temptations or impulses.

  • Eating only one cookie took a lot of self-control.
  • Maintaining self-control during stressful situations is challenging.
moderation

Applies to a balanced approach in various aspects of life, including food, drink, work, and leisure.

  • Moderation in all things is key to a healthy lifestyle.
  • She believes in eating sweets in moderation.
sobriety

Primarily used to describe the state of not being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but can also refer to seriousness or gravity.

  • After years of addiction, he finally achieved sobriety.
  • Her sobriety during the meeting impressed her colleagues.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient philosophers emphasized the importance of temperance as a key virtue.
  • Her temperance in handling difficult situations earned her respect from her peers.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin 'temperantia', meaning moderation or self-control, dating back to the 14th century.
  • In the past, temperance movements aimed to reduce alcohol consumption, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Famous figures like Benjamin Franklin advocated for temperance, linking it to moral behavior and personal responsibility.

Cultural Significance

  • Temperance is often associated with various religious teachings, emphasizing moderation and self-restraint as a virtue.
  • In literature, characters practicing temperance are frequently depicted as wise or noble, showcasing strength in self-control.
  • Art from the Renaissance frequently portrayed temperance as a figure, depicting its importance in balancing pleasures and responsibilities.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Aristotle viewed temperance as the mean between excess and deficiency, advocating for a balanced life.
  • Stoic philosophers emphasized temperance as a key virtue for achieving inner peace and resilience against life's challenges.
  • The idea of temperance is integral to many philosophical discussions on ethics, particularly regarding personal choices and societal impact.

Health and Wellness

  • Modern studies link practicing temperance with better mental health outcomes, promoting mindfulness and moderation.
  • Nutritionists suggest that temperance can lead to healthier eating habits, aiding in weight management and overall well-being.
  • Temperance is often recommended in lifestyle changes to combat issues like addiction or compulsive behaviors.

Psychology

  • Research in psychology suggests that practicing self-control can lead to better goal achievement and personal success.
  • Temperance may help reduce stress levels by encouraging individuals to make balanced choices in their daily lives.
  • Understanding one's limits and practicing moderation can enhance resilience against emotional disturbances.

Origin of 'temperance'

The word 'temperance' originated from the Latin word 'temperantia', meaning moderation or restraint. It has been historically associated with the Temperance movement, which advocated for moderation or abstention from alcohol. The concept of temperance has roots in various philosophical and religious traditions, emphasizing the importance of self-control and moderation in one's actions.

See also: intemperance, intemperate, temperament, temperate, temperature, tempering.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,678, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.