How to say "moderation" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 中道ちゅうどうno-adjectiveCovers moderation in the political or ideological sense—the middle of the road, centrism, the golden mean. Use it for moderate positions, parties, or stances rather than for restrained personal behavior.
- 節度せつどnounCovers moderation as measured, well-mannered behavior kept within proper limits—the sense of acting with restraint and decorum, as in moderate drinking, spending, or speech.
- 節制せっせいsuru verb, transitive verb, no-adjectiveCovers moderation as self-restraint or temperance—deliberately holding back from excess such as overeating or drinking. It emphasizes personal discipline rather than a balanced middle position.
For political moderation or the golden mean use 中道; for moderation as restrained, measured behavior use 節度; for moderation as self-restraint or temperance, especially over indulgence, use 節制.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
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