temperament

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "temperament" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the word to describe the typical behavior, attitude, or mood of a person, or the characteristic attitude or behavior of a particular group of people. For example, you could say, "The temperament of this family is usually very laid-back and relaxed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Even though we know it's all about temperament, how you deal with pressure, we do very little about it".There are plenty of theories – and scientific disagreements - as to the cause of depression, many of them too medical to mention here.

The Guardian - Sport

Gifted footballer though he is, the Frenchman has again demonstrated the fatal flaw in his temperament which eventually saw him quit league football in France after a series of run-ins with the authorities.

The Guardian - Sport

Gillard, the target of frequent sexist attacks during her time in power, produced a list of Abbott's remarks, including a quote from 1998 when he wondered out loud "what if men are by physiology or temperament more adapted to exercise authority or to issue command?" The unmarried prime minister also objected to Abbott's oft repeated suggestions that she make "an honest woman of herself".

The Guardian

He has the temperament to remain undaunted, the talent to succeed, and could benefit from playing alongside his club team-mate, Thiago Silva, with whom he enjoys a solid understanding at wealthy Paris Saint-Germain – who paid nearly £30m to sign him from Roma last year.

The Guardian - Sport

Wong is an unusual politician – her professional success something of a triumph of ambition over temperament.

The Guardian

Onlookers were astonished, delighted, appalled, according to temperament and party.

The Guardian

Back at home, I discover a simple quiz, developed by psychologists at the University of Newcastle, that's designed to reveal an individual's temperament.

The Guardian

Friday's awkward appearance was Paul's third difficult encounter with a journalist in as many days, leading to questions about his temperament under fire.

The Guardian

But when playing the socially challenged Bruce Banner, whose unhinged temperament leads to his transformations into the Hulk, Ruffalo's shiftiness becomes a major selling point.

The Guardian - Film

Age: 21 Current singles ranking: 52 Highest singles ranking: 27 Australian Opens played: five Best singles performance: fourth round (2012) Performance in 2013: third round Tomic remains an unknown quantity, his temperament and application called out as factors holding him back from his full potential.

The Guardian - Sport

Azarenka called her a unique player with a "really pretty game", while Anderson praises her ball striking ability and temperament.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "temperament" to describe someone's typical behavior, attitude, or mood. Consider the subtle differences between "temperament", "personality", and "character" to ensure precise communication. For example, "temperament" might describe someone's general mood, while "character" reflects their moral qualities.

Common error

Avoid confusing "temperament" with "temporary". "Temperament" refers to someone's disposition or personality, while "temporary" describes something lasting for a limited time. Using one in place of the other can drastically alter the meaning of your sentence.

Linguistic Context

The word "temperament" functions as a noun, typically referring to a person's or group's characteristic attitude, behavior, or mood. As Ludwig AI highlights, it relates to how someone deals with pressure or their typical emotional state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "temperament" is a commonly used noun to describe the typical behavior, attitude, or mood of a person or group. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It appears frequently in news and media, formal business contexts, and scientific discussions. Related terms include "disposition", "character", and "personality". When using "temperament", it's important to differentiate it from similar-sounding words like "temporary". Its understanding is key to accurately describing and interpreting human behavior.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disposition

Refers more broadly to a person's inherent qualities of mind and character.

character

Highlights moral and ethical qualities, offering a deeper evaluation of a person.

personality

Focuses on the combination of characteristics that form an individual's distinctive character.

nature

Emphasizes inherent and innate qualities of a person or thing.

emotional nature

Specifically highlights the emotional aspect of someone's personality.

mental constitution

Refers to the way someone's mind is structured or functions, affecting their behavior.

emotional makeup

Describes the combination of emotions and emotional tendencies that define a person.

inner being

Focuses on the deep, internal aspects of a person's identity and emotional life.

state of mind

Highlights the current emotional and psychological condition.

emotional response

Focuses on how a person reacts emotionally to specific situations.

FAQs

How can "temperament" be used in a sentence?

You can use "temperament" to describe someone's typical behavior, attitude, or mood. For example, "Her calm temperament helped her handle stressful situations effectively."

What words can I use instead of "temperament"?

You can use alternatives like "disposition", "character", or "personality" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "temperament" and "personality"?

"Temperament" often refers to innate, biologically based behavioral styles, whereas "personality" encompasses a broader range of learned and developed traits.

Is it correct to say someone has a 'good temperament'?

Yes, it is correct. Describing someone as having a "good temperament" implies they are generally even-tempered, patient, and pleasant to be around.