moderate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moderate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is average in amount, intensity, or degree, often in a context where balance is desired. Example: "The committee decided to take a moderate approach to the proposed changes, ensuring that all voices were heard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are seen as fetters on our freedom of action and finances, but doing little to moderate the behaviour of irresponsible states or to assist our wellbeing as a nation".

The Guardian

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 11.30pm BST23 30 "I thought, wow, here's ol' moderate Mitt.

The Guardian

"I vote Republican but I am a moderate and I think what has gone on has been political".

The Guardian

Christie, viewed by many as the most moderate would-be candidate in attendance, reeled off impressive statistics from his re-election victory in New Jersey last year as he received a predictably lukewarm response from the conservative-leaning audience.

The Guardian

Still, historically, voters in the region tend to elect moderate Democrats and moderate Republicans, including one Republican, Rod Grams, that publicly flirted with both parties.

The Guardian - Opinion

Another Republican will almost certainly succeed her, albeit a more moderate one who will be harder to defeat.

The Guardian - Opinion

The moderate conservative, frequently tipped by Republican insiders as vice-presidential material, made his ambitions for the top job clear with trips to the early primary states of New Hampshire and South Carolina on Saturday, followed by an appearance on NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday.

The Guardian

A moderate form of sharia was introduced in the majority-Muslim northern states in the 1990s, but it operates alongside secular courts.

The Guardian

Extend it to others – make it enough for others – and be moderate on taking, but be generous on giving.

The Guardian

We shouldn't be surprised to see growth moderate somewhat from the very robust rate in the preceding quarter.

The Guardian - Business

"His character is in every way that of a moderate; he is absolutely capable of undertaking the necessary renovation without any leaps into the unknown," said Francesca Ambrogetti, one of his biographers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When modifying a noun, make sure that the adjective "moderate" is correctly positioned, to ensure correct meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "moderate" when you actually mean "slightly" or "somewhat". "Moderate" implies balance and avoidance of extremes, not just a small degree.

Linguistic Context

The term "moderate" serves as an adjective, verb, or noun, signifying the avoidance of extremes or occupying a middle ground. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility across various grammatical roles, fitting seamlessly into diverse sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moderate" is a versatile term functioning as an adjective, verb, or noun to indicate balance, restraint, or a middle ground. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically sound and sees extensive use across various fields. The analysis reveals its prevalence in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific contexts. To ensure accuracy, remember that "moderate" is about balance, not merely a small degree. Employ best practices by providing context to avoid ambiguity, and you'll effectively convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temperate

Implies self-restraint and avoidance of extremes, similar to "moderate" but focuses more on personal behavior.

average

Indicates a typical or usual amount or degree, differing from "moderate" by lacking an implication of restraint.

reasonable

Suggests fairness and good judgment, while "moderate" emphasizes avoidance of extremes.

mild

Describes something gentle or not severe, akin to "moderate" in intensity but less applicable to abstract concepts.

measured

Highlights careful and deliberate action, while "moderate" is broader and includes avoiding excess.

medium

Refers to a middle point on a scale, differing from "moderate" in lacking implications of being reasonable or self-restrained.

intermediate

Signifies a position between two extremes, while "moderate" emphasizes avoidance of extremes.

restrained

Emphasizes holding back or controlling oneself, similar to "moderate" but often implies a conscious effort.

fair

Connotes impartiality and justice, diverging from "moderate"'s focus on intensity or degree.

controlled

Stresses the presence of regulation or command, while "moderate" implies more of a natural balance.

FAQs

How can I use "moderate" in a sentence?

You can use "moderate" to describe something that is average in amount, intensity, or degree, as in "The committee decided to take a "moderate approach" to the proposed changes".

What can I say instead of "moderate"?

You can use alternatives like "average", "reasonable", or "mild" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "moderate" or "moderately"?

"Moderate" is an adjective or verb, while "moderately" is an adverb. Use "moderate" to describe a noun (e.g., "moderate speed") and "moderately" to modify a verb, adjective, or another adverb (e.g., "moderately successful").

What's the difference between "moderate" and "modest"?

"Moderate" implies an avoidance of extremes or a middle ground, while "modest" suggests humility or simplicity. "Moderate" is often used to describe intensity or political views, whereas "modest" describes behavior or possessions.