temperance

USAGE SUMMARY

"temperance" is a perfectly correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to mean moderation or self-restraint, such as in the phrase, "Temperance practiced in moderation is a virtue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Just as one can coherently acknowledge the excellence of temperance while wondering whether one is morally obligated to act temperately, one can coherently acknowledge the excellence of justice while wondering whether one is morally obligated to act justly.

SEP

Many were attracted to Thomas Cook's tours because, as a supporter of the temperance movement, Cook's original trips were alcohol free.

The Guardian - Travel

Hundreds of different beers line the back room walls like wallpaper and are available to imbibe on the spot or to purchase individually for take out; which is a much rarer thing than you'd think, as Pennsylvania liquor laws are mostly relics imposed in the 1930s by temperance heads, still sore about the repeal.

The Guardian - Travel

A new temperance movement of surprising force has banished smokers from offices, restaurants and bars in a lengthening list of countries.

The Economist

In Faliraki, a Greek island resort where locals once so despaired of young drunk northern Europeans vomiting everywhere that they banned pub crawls, some are now desperate for the tourists to come back.The media, too, are struggling to cope with the rising temperance of youth.

The Economist

In a few there is no overall trend to temperance: drug-taking and youth violence both appear to have increased in France in recent years.

The Economist

In 1879, it was bought by temperance campaigners.

The Economist

It, and the eight countries that have supplied troops to help bring aid and hold the ring, seem keen to give the election a cleanish bill of health then clear out within a month or so.Albania's rulers-elect are talking an unBalkan language of conciliation and temperance.

The Economist

But ordinary drinking dens are becoming a little drier, too, out of business sense rather than temperance principle.

The Economist

At these prices, shoppers can buy enough booze to exceed the government's recommended limits for little more than £3 a week.A growing temperance movement seeks to end this bonanza.

The Economist

WHEN the Reverend Henry Solly, a temperance campaigner, founded the first working men's club in 1862, one of his aims was to keep the membership away from gin palaces.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "temperance", clarify the specific area of moderation you are referring to, such as food, alcohol, or emotions, to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of just saying "practicing temperance", you could say "practicing temperance in dietary habits".

Common error

Avoid assuming "temperance" solely refers to alcohol. While it's a common association, it encompasses moderation in all aspects of life. Use more specific terms like "sobriety" or "abstinence" if you are exclusively discussing alcohol consumption.

Linguistic Context

The noun "temperance" functions primarily as a concept or abstract noun, referring to the quality of moderation or self-restraint. Ludwig AI indicates that it is used correctly in written English. Examples show it used to describe moderation in various aspects of life.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "temperance" is a versatile term signifying moderation and self-restraint, as confirmed by Ludwig. While often associated with alcohol abstinence, its meaning extends to encompass balance in all aspects of life. It's grammatically correct and frequently appears in News & Media and Science contexts. Related phrases include "self-restraint" and "moderation", and can also be associated with "sobriety". While used correctly in English, it's advisable to clarify the specific domain of "temperance" to prevent misunderstandings, and not limit it to alcohol use only. Understanding the wide applicability and proper contextual usage of "temperance" enhances clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-restraint

Focuses specifically on the act of restraining oneself.

moderation

Highlights the avoidance of extremes, leaning toward balance.

self-discipline

Emphasizes the discipline one imposes on oneself.

restraint

Highlights the controlled limitation of one's actions or emotions.

self-control

Emphasizes the ability to control one's own behavior and emotions.

abstinence

Suggests a complete refraining from something, often alcohol or other indulgences.

sobriety

Relates specifically to abstaining from alcohol or drugs.

prudence

Focuses on careful and wise decision-making, often involving restraint.

frugality

Highlights the careful management of resources, avoiding wastefulness.

austerity

Suggests a strict and simple lifestyle, often with limited comforts.

FAQs

How can I use "temperance" in a sentence?

You can use "temperance" to describe moderation or self-restraint in various contexts. For instance, "Temperance in eating" can lead to better health, or "practicing temperance" in one's spending habits can lead to financial stability.

What words can I use instead of "temperance"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "moderation", "self-restraint", or "abstinence" as alternatives to "temperance". These words convey similar meanings of restraint and balance.

Is "temperance" only related to alcohol?

No, while "temperance" is often associated with abstaining from alcohol, it refers to moderation or self-restraint in general, including food, emotions, and other indulgences. "Sobriety" is a more specific term for alcohol abstinence.

What is the difference between "temperance" and "self-control"?

"Temperance" implies moderation and balance in all things, while "self-control" refers to the ability to manage one's impulses and reactions. While related, "temperance" is a broader concept encompassing a balanced lifestyle.