Mértékletes

Mértékletes is a Hungarian adjective meaning moderate, restrained, or tempered in manner, speech, or judgment. It describes a person or approach that avoids extremes and seeks proportion and prudence. The term can refer to behavior (mértékletes beszéd), diet (mértékletes étrend), or public policy (mértékletes álláspont). In everyday usage, it connotes reasonableness, thoughtfulness, and self-control rather than sensationalism.

Etymology and related forms: The word derives from mérték, meaning measure, with the suffix -letes, yielding “characterized by measure.” Related terms include mértéktartó (temperate, self-controlled) and mértékletesség (moderation). The adverbial form is mértékletesen, used to describe actions done in a measured way.

Usage and nuance: In journalism and public discourse, mértékletes signals a stance that favors gradualism and restraint over radical shifts. It is often contrasted with extremes such as radikális or fanatikus. While mérsékelt describes general moderation in scope, mértékletes emphasizes prudent proportion and self-restraint. The word appears in everyday language and formal writing alike.