adjective / adverb HSK 5
Traditional 適度
moderate · appropriate · in moderation
Meaning
适度 means doing something to an appropriate or moderate extent—not too much and not too little. It emphasizes balance and suitability to a given situation. The word combines 适 (suitable, appropriate) with 度 (degree, extent) to convey the idea of maintaining proper measure.
Usage
Commonly used in formal or semi-formal contexts when discussing health, lifestyle, behavior, or policy. Native speakers often use it when advising balance, such as "适度运动" (moderate exercise) or "适度饮酒" (drink in moderation). It carries a tone of wisdom and restraint.
Examples
- 01医生建议他适度运动，不要过于劳累。, .The doctor advised him to exercise in moderation and not overexert himself.
- 02适度的压力可以提高工作效率。.Moderate pressure can improve work efficiency.
Characters
Common collocations
- 适度运动moderate exercise
- 适度饮酒drink in moderation
- 保持适度maintain moderation
- 适度控制moderate control
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 适 (suitable) and 度 (measure/degree), literally meaning 'suitable degree.' This reflects the traditional Chinese philosophical emphasis on balance and the 'middle way.'