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moderately

American  
[mod-er-it-lee, mod-rit-lee] / ˈmɒd ər ɪt li, ˈmɒd rɪt li /

adverb

  1. within reasonable or proper limits; in a way that is not excessive.

    Some of the more moderately priced accommodations are quite pleasingly situated.

  2. to an adequate but not great extent.

    We’re moderately well compensated at the factory, but it’s not going to make us rich.

  3. to a mediocre degree; fairly; somewhat: moderately chilly temperatures.

    moderately competent dancers;

    moderately chilly temperatures.


Etymology

Origin of moderately

First recorded in 1350–1400; late Middle English moderatliche, moderatly; moderate ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Researchers also found that one immune gene that appeared only moderately important in laboratory tests became clearly important under natural environmental conditions.

From Science Daily • Jun. 30, 2026

One worker said: "There is immense pressure on staff - we are mildly to moderately short-staffed all the time."

From BBC • Jun. 16, 2026

Koalas can endure tough conditions in the Australian bush but prolonged exposure to even moderately hot weather can increase their risk of heat-related death, researchers said on Wednesday.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

Futures point to a moderately down open for stocks, Brent crude oil prices are up a touch and U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026

“I’m not very special, only moderately; not like some you see. But that’s what Mercer doesn’t care about.”

From "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" by Philip K. Dick

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