What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
conservative
Example
He has always been a conservative when it comes to economic policies. [conservative: adjective]
Example
The company took a conservative approach to expanding into new markets. [conservative: noun]
moderate
Example
She has moderate views on social issues, supporting some reforms but also respecting traditional values. [moderate: adjective]
Example
The candidate appealed to moderate voters by emphasizing practical solutions and compromise. [moderate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Moderate is more commonly used than conservative in everyday language, especially in the context of personal attitudes or problem-solving. Conservative is more specific to politics or social issues and may have a narrower range of applications.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between conservative and moderate?
Both conservative and moderate can be used in formal or informal contexts, depending on the context and tone of the communication. However, conservative may be more associated with formal or academic language, while moderate is more versatile and can be used in various registers.