modérément

Modérément is a French adverb meaning to a moderate extent or in a moderate way; in English, moderately. It is used to indicate restraint, balance, or a measured degree in actions, attitudes, or quantities. The term helps to soften statements or prescriptions by avoiding extremes, and it often appears in health, nutrition, or policy-related contexts.

Etymology and form: Modérément derives from the adjective modéré (moderate), which itself comes from Latin moderatus, from modus “measure.” The adverbial form is created with the suffix -ment and carries the sense of acting with moderation or restraint. As a degree adverb, it primarily modifies verbs but can also modify adjectives in some constructions, signaling a moderate level of a described property.

Usage and examples: Commonly, modérément modifies a verb, as in “boire modérément” (to drink moderately) or “consommer modérément” (to consume in moderation). It can also precede an adjective to indicate a moderate degree, for example, “un coût modérément élevé” (a moderately high cost). The term is typically neutral and formal, suitable for instructional, scientific, or policy-related writing.

Synonyms and related terms: raisonnablement, avec modération, tempéré, mesuré. Antonyms include excessivement and fortement.

See also: modération, modérer, modérateur, modération des risques. This article reflects standard French usage and notes that, while generally preferred for neutral, measured statements, more vivid terms may be used in informal speech to emphasize stronger degrees.