temper

Vocabulary Word

Definition

Although 'temper' often refers to someone's mood, particularly when they're angry, it can also mean to soften or moderate something. If you 'temper' your expectations, for instance, you adjust them to be more reasonable.

Examples in Different Contexts

In manufacturing, especially metallurgy, 'tempering' is a heat treatment technique used to improve the hardness and toughness of metals. A metallurgist might explain, 'Tempering the steel at the right temperature will ensure its durability and strength.'

Practice Scenarios

Creative

Scenario:

The bold color palette is lively, but it may overpower the subtle details of the artwork.

Response:

To balance the bold effect, we could temper the palette with some softer, more muted tones.

Impact

Scenario:

Pushing for radical change is good, but we have to consider how it might appear to those on the fence about our cause.

Response:

I agree, for the best results, we should temper our approach to avoid alienating potential supporters.