compromise
KOM-pruh-myze
/ˈkɒmprəmaɪz/
An agreement or a settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions.
As a verb, it can also mean to weaken or bring into danger (e.g., 'compromise your principles').
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'compromissum,' which was a mutual promise to abide by the decision of an arbiter. It literally means 'promising together.'
Word relationships
- concession: A concession is one thing you give up; a compromise is the whole agreement where both sides give things up.
- intransigence: Intransigence is the refusal to change one's views or to agree about something.
Commonly confused with
- capitulation: Capitulation is surrendering; compromise is meeting in the middle.
Word family
- uncompromising (adjective): Unwilling to make concessions.
Collocations
- reach a compromise
- spirit of compromise
- unwilling to compromise
Example sentences
- "All government, indeed every human benefit and enjoyment, every virtue, and every prudent act, is founded on compromise and barter." A political observation.
- "In any long-term relationship, you have to be willing to compromise on the small things." Personal relationships.
Memory hook
A compromise is a 'common promise' made by both sides. Promising together.
When not to use
Don't use it if one side gets everything they want; that's a victory, not a compromise.
Fun facts
- The 'Great Compromise' of 1787 settled how states would be represented in the US Congress.
Related words
Explore more words
concession, trade-off, settlement, negotiate, conciliation, concede
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