Moderate
/ˈmɒdərət/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo lessen the intensity or extremity of something; to control or preside over.
/ˈmɒdəreɪt/
To make or become less extreme, intense, or violent.
The teacher tried to moderate the students' enthusiasm for the project.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're turning down the volume on a loud party. You're trying to make it less wild and bring it to a more comfortable level. That's moderating!
👶 For kids: To make something not too much or not too little.
More Examples
The doctor advised the patient to moderate their alcohol consumption.
The government is trying to moderate inflation.
How It's Used
"The senator tried to moderate the debate."
"The company moderated its growth projections."
"We need to moderate our impact on the environment."
Within reasonable limits; not extreme or excessive; tending towards the middle.
/ˈmɒdərət/
Being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme.
The doctor recommended a moderate amount of exercise.
💡 Simply: Imagine Goldilocks trying out the porridge. If it's not too hot and not too cold, it's moderate, just right!
👶 For kids: Not too much, not too little, just right!
More Examples
He is a moderate drinker.
The price was moderate, so I bought it.
How It's Used
"She is known for her moderate political views."
"The company saw a moderate increase in profits."
"The weather was a moderate temperature."
A person holding moderate political or social views; one who avoids extremes.
/ˈmɒdərət/
A person who holds moderate views, especially in politics.
The political party is trying to attract moderate voters.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who isn't super-left or super-right in their political ideas – they’re in the middle, trying to find a balance. That person is a moderate.
👶 For kids: Someone who doesn't pick the biggest or the smallest.
More Examples
The moderates in the party are advocating for reform.
The debate featured both liberals and moderates.
How It's Used
"Moderates often seek compromise between opposing viewpoints."
Synonyms
From Latin *moderat-*, past participle of *moderari* 'to regulate, control,' from *modus* 'measure, manner, way'.
Used since the 15th century to describe a person or thing that shows restraint or is within reasonable limits.
Memory tip
Think of a thermostat—it moderates the temperature.