moderation
mod-uh-RAY-shun
/ˌmɑːdəˈreɪʃn/
The avoidance of excess or extremes, especially in one's behavior or opinions.
Core to Buddha's Middle Way and Confucian doctrine of the Mean.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'moderatio', built on 'modus' (a proper measure or limit). To practice moderation is to stay within the measured bounds rather than overstepping into wild excess.
Word relationships
- temperance: Temperance emphasizes self-restraint, particularly regarding physical pleasures like alcohol.
- restraint: Restraint emphasizes holding oneself back from extreme actions.
- excess: Excess means going beyond reasonable or necessary limits.
- extravagance: Extravagance implies wasteful overindulgence.
Commonly confused with
- mediocrity: Mediocrity means average quality or lack of excellence; moderation means intentional balanced avoidance of extremes.
Word family
- moderate (adjective / verb): Average in amount or intensity; to make less extreme
- moderately (adverb): To a reasonable degree
Collocations
- in moderation
- exercise moderation
- strict moderation
- golden mean of moderation
Idioms & expressions
- everything in moderation
- the middle road
Example sentences
- "The Buddha advocated moderation in all things, avoiding both severe indulgence and brutal mortification." Eastern Philosophy
- "Practicing moderation in diet and exercise ensures sustainable long-term health." Health & Ethics
Memory hook
MODERATION keeps things MODERATE and measured. Measure and avoid extremes.
When not to use
Do not confuse with internet forum content moderation (though related by root, philosophical context is personal self-restraint).
Fun facts
- The Latin phrase 'modus operandi' (mode of operating) and 'commodity' share the same root 'modus'.
Related words
Explore more words
temperance, moderate, temperate, modest, centrist, asceticism
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