German word

mäßig

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈmɛːsɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectivemoderate

Example

Die Preise sind mäßig.

The prices are moderate.

Illustration for mäßig (moderate)

More examples

Wir sollten ein mäßiges Tempo beibehalten.

We should keep a moderate pace.

Core concept

A measured portion stays within a restrained range instead of becoming intense, excessive, or exceptional.

Common phrases

  • mäßige Erhöhung

    moderate increase

  • mäßiges Tempo

    moderate pace

  • mäßiger Konsum

    moderate consumption

Similar words

gemäßigt: Balanced in outlook or behavior and not driven to extremes.
moderat: Moderate in degree and unlikely to become excessive.
angemessen: Appropriate for the circumstances and the intended goal.
mittelmäßig: Average in quality and unremarkable in overall standard.

Definition in German

Nicht übertrieben; in Grad oder Intensität zurückhaltend.

Word origin

Mäßig was formed from Maß, "measure," plus -ig, giving the basic idea of something related to or controlled by a measure.

Usage tips

  • In evaluations such as "mäßige Qualität," mäßig often means mediocre or below impressive, not simply moderate.

Other meanings

  • moderatelyadverb
  • modestadjective
  • ordinaryadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • mäßigentemperverb
  • Mäßigungmoderationnoun
  • gemäßigtmoderateadjective

Word lists with this word