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moderate

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈmɒd.ər.ət/

KK: /ˈmɒd.ər.ət/

adjective
Definition

Not too much or too little; within reasonable limits and not extreme.


Example

The restaurant offers moderate prices that are affordable for most people.


Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparative: more moderate

Superlative: most moderate


Conversation
Sloth A
How do you feel about the weather lately?
Sloth B
I think it's been quite moderate, not too hot or cold.
Sloth A
Yeah, I prefer days like this over extreme heat.
Sloth B
Same here! It makes it much more enjoyable to be outside.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
average
mild
reasonable
Antonyms
extreme
radical
excessive
intransitive verb
Definition

To act as a moderator or to lessen in intensity or severity.


Example

During the debate, she had to moderate the discussion to keep it respectful.


Tense Forms

Past: moderated

Past Participle: moderated


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard the argument got pretty heated during the meeting.
Sloth B
Yeah, but thankfully, the manager was able to moderate the discussion.
Sloth A
That's good to hear; it’s important to keep things calm.
Sloth B
noun
Definition

A person who has moderate opinions or beliefs, especially in politics or religion, and does not hold extreme views.


Example

The moderate in the debate advocated for a balanced approach to the issue.


Conversation
Sloth A
I had a really interesting conversation with a moderate today about politics.
Sloth B
Oh really? What did they say?
Sloth A
They believe that finding a moderate balance is key to solving issues.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To make something less extreme or severe, or to oversee a discussion or event.


Example

The teacher had to moderate the debate to ensure everyone had a chance to speak.


Tense Forms

Past: moderated

Past Participle: moderated


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that they want someone to moderate the debate this weekend?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it's a good idea to keep things civil.
Sloth A
I wonder who they'll choose to moderate it.
Root Explanation

Moderate → It is formed from "modus" (meaning measure or manner) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to make or to become). The word "moderate" means to make something measured or to keep it within reasonable limits.

Memory Tip

Think of 'measure' ('modus') to remember that 'moderate' means to keep things within reasonable limits.

Visually Confused Words
unmoderate
immoderate
morate
derate
ponderate
unmoderately
operate
odorate
Is this page helpful?
Exactly, it helps everyone focus on finding a solution.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
calm
lessen
diminish
Antonyms
intensify
aggravate
escalate
That makes sense; extremes often create more problems.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
centrist
mediator
moderator
Antonyms
extremist
radical
fanatic
Sloth B
Hopefully someone who can handle the tough questions well!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
diminish
mitigate
regulate
Antonyms
intensify
exacerbate
aggravate