Cool MateModerate
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.