comedido

Comedido is an adjective in Portuguese that designates restrained, prudent, and moderate behavior. It derives from the verb comedir, which means to contain impulses, desires, or actions. In usage, comedido describes people, speech, attitudes, or policies that avoid excess and adopt a stance of sobriety and caution. In formal, journalistic, or literary contexts, the term emphasizes balance, discretion, and respect for norms or conventions. It stands in opposition to terms like estridente or impulsivo, suggesting restraint and prudence.

Common synonyms include contido, moderado, prudente, and reservado. The antonym would be impulsivo or exagerado. The term also appears in expressions such as "tom comedido" or "discurso comedido," referring to moderation in language or conduct. The related noun is comedimento, which designates the quality of being comedido or the practice of self-restraint.

Note: although relatively rare, the word may occur in academic or formal texts, especially in discussions about ethics, governance, or communication. In informal contexts, it is often replaced by more common terms like moderado, cauteloso, or contido.