happy medium

noun

1. a course of action or condition that is between two extremes:

   Our climate is a happy medium between hot and cold.

2. a satisfactory compromise between two things that are related in such a way that one increases as the other decreases:

   We need to find a happy medium between conserving land and developing property.

happy medium

noun

1. a course or state that avoids extremes

Word History and Origins

Origin of happy medium¹

First recorded in 1615–25

Idioms and Phrases

The midway point between two extremes. For example, We need to find a happy medium between overdoing the holiday season and ignoring it entirely . This expression, first recorded in 1778, was once known as the golden mean and is based on ancient mathematical principles.

Example Sentences

Many of us strike a happy medium, leaving enough wiggle room with reality to spin a good yarn.

From The Daily Beast

As he is walking out the door, the Japanese call him back, capitulate, and a happy medium is agreed on.

From The Daily Beast

DataWind believes it has found both the happy medium, and the perfect testing ground for it.

From The Daily Beast

Despite the criticism, the band has managed to find a happy medium.

From The Daily Beast

But can quality roles and ample compensation reach a happy medium for an actor?

From The Daily Beast

Now he proposes to avoid the two extremes, and to search for an easier course in a happy medium.

From Project Gutenberg

Youll have to strike a happy medium as to the time you get here.

From Project Gutenberg

She compromised, of course, as people always compromise upon impulses, by a happy medium.

From Project Gutenberg

The hostess should preserve the happy medium between neglecting and overattending to her guests.

From Project Gutenberg

The third boat was a happy medium between the other two, and went under the name of the Tramp.

From Project Gutenberg