Moderation
/ˌmɒdəˈreɪʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe avoidance of excess or extremes, especially in behavior or expression; the quality of being moderate.
/ˌmɒdəˈreɪʃən/
The act of avoiding excess or extremes; the state of being moderate.
The chef emphasized moderation in the use of spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.
💡 Simply: Moderation is like when you're eating your favorite candy. You love it, but you only eat a little bit so you don't get sick or feel too full. It's about finding the right amount.
👶 For kids: Moderation means not too much and not too little. Like eating just the right amount of snacks!
More Examples
She practices moderation in her work habits to avoid burnout.
The government called for moderation in public spending to control the national debt.
How It's Used
"Exercising moderation in all things is often considered a key to a healthy life."
"The doctor recommended moderation in the consumption of sweets and fatty foods."
"The political party advocated for moderation and compromise in policy-making."
The act of presiding over a meeting or discussion to ensure order and manage the proceedings.
/ˌmɒdəˈreɪʃən/
The act of presiding over a meeting or debate.
The debate was successful because of the moderator’s fair and impartial handling of questions.
💡 Simply: Sometimes people get together to talk or argue. The person who helps everyone talk nicely and stay on the topic is the moderator. It's like being the referee!
👶 For kids: Moderation can also mean to be the person who keeps a meeting in order so people can talk nicely together.
More Examples
The online forum had strict moderation to prevent spam and offensive content.
She was asked to take on the role of moderation during the school board meeting.
How It's Used
"The professor was responsible for the moderation of the final exam."
"He was tasked with moderation of the town hall meeting."
Idioms & expressions
in moderation
To do something in small or reasonable amounts; avoiding excess.
"Enjoying a glass of wine in moderation is generally considered acceptable."
From Middle French modération, from Latin moderatio (“a keeping within measure, temperance”), from moderari (“to regulate, control”).
The word 'moderation' has been used since the 15th century, initially referring to temperance and restraint in general, but also related to controlling emotions and passions.
Memory tip
Think of a scale balanced in the middle; moderation means staying in the center, not tipping to one extreme or the other.