C2verbformalemotionspsychology
US/ˈtem.pər/
UK/ˈtem.pə/
to make something less strong or extreme by adding something that balances it
In context
Experts urged fans to temper their expectations before the team's first match.
Good teachers temper honest feedback with plenty of encouragement.
Our joy at the birth was tempered by worry about the baby's heart.
Words that go with temper
verb + preposition
- tempered byHis optimism is tempered by years of experience in the industry.
verb + noun
- temper expectationsThe company tempered expectations by warning of slower growth.
- temper enthusiasmRising costs have tempered enthusiasm for electric cars.
- temper the effectsShade trees help temper the effects of extreme heat in cities.
- temper the impactGovernment support helped temper the impact of the price rise on poor families.
- temper justiceWise judges know how to temper justice with mercy.