temper
To moderate or soften something, making it less extreme
Examples
In a meeting
“We should temper our expectations given the tight timeline.”
Over coffee
“Try to temper your criticism with some positive feedback.”
Why this word
moderate
temper implies adjusting intensity by adding a counterbalancing element, while moderate means general reduction without the blending connotation
soften
temper suggests balancing extremes through careful adjustment, while soften simply means making less harsh or intense
mitigate
temper emphasizes balancing one quality with another to achieve proper proportion, while mitigate focuses on reducing severity
Usage tip
Use when advocating for moderation or balance. Often paired with abstract nouns like expectations, enthusiasm, or criticism.
Etymology
Latin 'temperare' meaning to mix in proper proportion, to moderate
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Related words
offset
Counterbalance or compensate for something with an opposing action
compensate
To make up for something unwelcome by providing a counterbalancing benefit; to pay someone for work.
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
streamline
To make a process or system more efficient by simplifying or eliminating unnecessary steps.
delegate
To assign a task or responsibility to someone else.
validate
To confirm that something is correct, sound, or meets requirements.