compromise

Everyday

1. An agreement where each side gives up a little of what it wants so they can agree. tree →
2. (verb) To settle an argument by each side giving up something. tree →
3. (verb) To put something in danger or make it weaker: «compromise your safety». tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and friendships, compromise is how people solve disagreements fairly, for example taking turns or sharing. In stories, characters reach a compromise to end a quarrel. In safety, you should never compromise safety for fun. Phrases: «reach a compromise», «make a compromise», «meet halfway».

Examples

• We both wanted the swing, so we made a compromise and took turns. tree →
• Mum and Dad compromised: pizza tonight, fish tomorrow. tree →
• A good compromise leaves both sides fairly happy. tree →
• Never compromise your safety to look brave. tree →
• After a long talk, the two teams reached a compromise. tree →
• I wanted two hours of TV and Mum wanted none; we agreed on one hour. tree →
• No compromise was possible, and so they went at it tooth and claw. tree →

Note

Stress: «COM-pro-mize». A compromise is not losing; both sides win a little. The second meaning (put in danger) is more grown-up. In a number problem, a compromise is often halfway between two amounts.