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moderate

As an adjective, "moderate" describes something that is not extreme, or is average and within reasonable limits (e.g., "moderate risk," "moderate speed"). As a transitive verb, "moderate" means to make something less intense or extreme, or to chair a discussion (e.g., "moderate expectations," "moderate a debate"). As an intransitive verb, it means to become less intense or extreme (e.g., "the storm moderated"). As a noun, "a moderate" refers to a person whose political or ideological views are not extreme.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬David is in his home office, Chloe is at her dorm, both texting during their day.
David Smith

Hey, try to moderate your caffeine intake today. Don't want that brain drain!

David Smith
Chloe Smith
Chloe Smith

Dad, I'm literally running on fumes for these finals. No time for moderation.

💡
David, trying to be a 'cool dad' and using a corporate buzzword ('brain drain'), advises Chloe to moderate her caffeine. Chloe, being a dramatic student, uses the idiom 'running on fumes' to convey extreme exhaustion, indicating she can't afford to moderate anything right now.

Meanings

adjective

Not extreme or excessive; within reasonable limits.

"moderate temperature"

verb (transitive)
[moderate something]

To make something less extreme or intense; to preside over a discussion or meeting.

"moderate a discussion"

verb (intransitive)

To become less extreme or intense; to decrease in strength.

"feelings began to moderate"

noun

A person who holds political or religious views that are not extreme.

"a political moderate"

Examples

I think the weather will be moderate this weekend, thankfully.

Can you moderate your tone, please? You're being really loud.

We need to find a way to moderate these budget cuts.

My doctor suggested moderate exercise daily.

The recipe calls for a moderate amount of spice, not too much.

They chose a moderate candidate for the election, hoping for stability.

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error