C1adjective2K

Moderate

UK /["/ˈmɒdərət/"]/US /["/ˈmɑːdərət/"]/

Definition

that is neither very good, large, hot, etc. nor very bad, small, cold, etc.

In simple words: Not too much or too little; average.

Examples

  • students of moderate ability
  • Even moderate amounts of the drug can be fatal.
  • The team enjoyed only moderate success last season.
  • Cook over a moderate heat.
  • **moderate views/policies**
  • a moderate socialist
  • a moderate drinker
  • moderate wage demands

Usage notes

Use 'moderate' when describing something that is average or reasonable. It often applies to intensity, size, or quantity. It's appropriate in conversations about weather, exercise, or opinions, but might seem too vague in more specific contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'moderate' like a moderate temperature - not too hot, not too cold.

Collocations

  • be
  • very
  • fairly
  • relatively
  • be
  • very
  • fairly
  • relatively
  • be
  • very
  • fairly
  • relatively

Synonyms

  • average
  • medium
  • reasonable
  • temperate
  • modest

Antonyms

  • extreme
  • excessive
  • immoderate

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'moderation' which refers to the practice of avoiding extremes.
  • Using 'moderate' when 'moderately' is needed, especially in adverbial contexts.
  • Assuming 'moderate' always has a positive connotation; it can also imply something is lacking in intensity.