seek moderation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seek moderation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when advising someone to find a balanced approach or to avoid extremes in behavior or opinion. Example: "In discussions about sensitive topics, it's important to seek moderation to ensure a respectful dialogue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

One reaction to Luberto's display, from Boca Raton, Florida, At the risk of being labeled a Grinch or Scrooge himself, given the urgency of our climate change situation, perhaps it is time to seek moderation and find new ways (or old -- candlelight perhaps) to celebrate this magical time of year.

Huffington Post

So Aristotle's maxim applies even to value and momentum investing: Seek moderation in all things.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It seeks moderation, rather than prohibition.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Islam seeks moderation," he told the pilgrims.

The New York Times

"See, in this regime, anytime they want to talk of standing in the face of tyranny, they point to Imam Hossein, and whenever they are seeking moderation and consensus, they recall Imam Hassan.

The Guardian

Fearful that President Obama's approach would diminish their mandate and justification for nuclear weapons, the ruling clerics appear to have manipulated the vote by a people seeking moderation and reform.

The New York Times

In the name of general principles such as tradition, order, authority and moderation, they seek to preserve particular relations of power.

The Guardian - Opinion

Amazingly, when you stop restricting, depriving, and punishing yourself, you'll naturally begin to seek balance, variety, and moderation in your diet.

Huffington Post

Already a public interest litigation has been filed in Gujarat High Court by Bhagyoday Jan Parishad, an association of traders, in Ahmedabad, seeking "restraint and moderation" of the order.

The New York Times

The better way for Muslims seeking reconciliation and moderation would have been for them to reach out to the families of the victims, who we are sure could have recommended any number of actions to achieve those goals other than the present plan.

Huffington Post

"The Peace through Moderation project seeks to strengthen the voices of moderation and reason so they can help to dissuade vulnerable populations from aligning themselves with and supporting extremist elements," Paul Stevers says.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about political or social issues, using the phrase "seek moderation" can encourage a balanced and nuanced discussion, avoiding extreme viewpoints.

Common error

While "seek moderation" is a valid phrase, it can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "find a balance" or "meet halfway" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek moderation" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, typically serving as a directive or recommendation. It urges the pursuit of balance or avoidance of extremes, often in contexts requiring careful consideration and judgment. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seek moderation" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, though not overly common, as affirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a directive to pursue balance and avoid extremes, often appearing in news and media or scientific contexts. While it's appropriate for formal writing, simpler alternatives may be preferable in casual conversation. Remember to "seek moderation" in discussions and decision-making to foster understanding and prevent overly harsh outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pursue balance

Replaces "moderation" with "balance", focusing on achieving equilibrium.

strive for temperance

Substitutes "seek" with "strive" and "moderation" with "temperance", emphasizing effort and self-restraint.

aim for equilibrium

Uses "aim" instead of "seek" and "equilibrium" to suggest a state of perfect balance.

find middle ground

Replaces "seek moderation" with a more colloquial expression indicating compromise.

promote restraint

Focuses on the action of encouraging moderation rather than personally seeking it.

encourage temperance

Similar to "promote restraint" but uses "temperance" for a slightly more formal tone.

adopt a balanced approach

Shifts the focus to adopting a pre-existing strategy of balance.

cultivate equanimity

Emphasizes the development of mental calmness and composure.

exercise self-control

Highlights the aspect of personal control in achieving moderation.

practice prudence

Focuses on careful and wise decision-making as a means of achieving moderation.

FAQs

How can I use "seek moderation" in a sentence?

You can use "seek moderation" when you want to suggest finding a balance or avoiding extremes in a particular situation. For example, "In discussions about sensitive topics, it's important to "seek moderation" to ensure a respectful dialogue."

What can I say instead of "seek moderation"?

You can use alternatives like "pursue balance", "strive for temperance", or "aim for equilibrium" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "seek moderation" or "seeking moderation"?

"Seek moderation" is an imperative or infinitive form, suggesting an action or goal. "Seeking moderation" is a gerund or present participle, describing the act of searching for moderation. Both can be correct depending on the sentence structure.

What's the difference between "seek moderation" and "seek mediation"?

"Seek moderation" implies finding a middle ground or balanced approach, while "seek mediation" refers to seeking the intervention of a third party to resolve a conflict.