How to say "temperate" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 適度てきどna-adjective, no-adjectiveCovers 'temperate' as moderation in degree or amount — eating, drinking, or exercise that is neither excessive nor insufficient. It judges the quantity itself as right or suitable.
- 温暖おんだんna-adjective, nounThe word for a temperate climate: weather that stays warm and mild, as in describing a region or its winters. It stresses warmth rather than mere gentleness.
- 温和おんわna-adjective, nounAlso describes climate and weather, but with the nuance of mildness and pleasantness rather than warmth — a clement day or a region whose climate is gentle.
- 穏健おんけんna-adjectiveCovers 'temperate' applied to views, politics, and similar stances: moderate and sensible rather than extreme. Use it for a person or position that stays sober and measured.
- 控えめひかえめna-adjective, no-adjectiveIts core meaning is reserved and modest, so it suits 'temperate' when this means holding back — restrained behavior or a modest amount — rather than climate or opinions.
Use 適度 for temperate degree or amount, 温暖 and 温和 for temperate climate (warm vs mild), 穏健 for temperate views or politics, and 「控えめ」 for temperate, restrained behavior.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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