Vocabulary in context
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Compromise
To settle differences by making concessions during negotiation; or to expose to risk or harm by allowing protections, standards, or integrity to be weakened.
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Imagine This
Imagine two coworkers arguing over project scope. They each give up a few demands, shake on a plan that includes some compromises, and finalize a workable agreement.
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Sounds Like
KOM-pruh-mahyz
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Looks Like
com + promise
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Remember This
Compromise can refer to a negotiated settlement or to risking something by lowering standards or protections; the sense is highly context-dependent.
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Other Forms
compromisesverb
compromisedverb
compromisingverb
compromisenoun
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Note
Be careful not to confuse compromise with comprise (to consist of). Also note that compromising one's integrity means something is damaged or weakened.
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Study Deeper
Examples
- The two sides reached a compromise after hours of negotiation.
- She refused to compromise her principles, even in the face of pressure.
Synonyms
concedesettlenegotiateaccommodatemoderate
Antonyms
insistrefusestand firm
Etymology
From Old French compromis, via Latin compromisum, from com- 'together' + promissum 'promised'; originally a mutual promise or agreement.
Mnemonic
COM + Promise: Two people come together to promise each other something, and in the process each gives a little to reach a shared promise.
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Immutable
adjectiveNot able to be changed; unchanging over time; fixed and permanent.
Imitation
nounThe act or result of copying someone or something; a thing that imitates or resembles another.
Heterogeneous
adjectiveDescribing a mixture or group that is composed of unlike parts; not uniform or homogeneous throughout.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Negotiate
verbTo bargain with others to reach an agreement on terms; to discuss and arrange terms of a deal. It can also mean to manage or navigate through obstacles by discussion and cooperation.
Concede
verbTo admit that something is true or valid; to yield or grant, especially after negotiation.
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Abridge
verbTo shorten (a text, speech, or other work) by omitting parts; to condense.
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