compromise

noun
UK: /ˈkɒm.prə.maɪz/
US: /ˈkɑːm.prə.maɪz/

  1. An agreement where everyone involved gives up something they want.

    1. Let's compromise and order pizza. [ ] [ ]
    2. After lengthy talks, they reached a compromise, satisfying few but angering none. [ ] [ ]

  2. Something that combines qualities of two different things.

    1. This design is a compromise between style and comfort. [ ] [ ]
    2. The new policy represents a compromise between environmental protection and economic growth. [ ] [ ]

  3. The act of accepting that you will reduce your demands or change your opinion in order to reach an agreement with someone.

    1. Sometimes compromise is the only way forward. [ ] [ ]
    2. Successful relationships often depend on compromise and understanding. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

agreement negotiation adjustment settlement middle ground understanding concession
compromise verb

  1. To settle a disagreement by making concessions.

    1. We need to compromise on this. [ ] [ ]
    2. It is important to compromise in a relationship for it to work effectively. [ ] [ ]

  2. To accept standards that are lower than is desirable.

    1. Don't compromise your values for success. [ ] [ ]
    2. He refused to compromise his principles, even under immense pressure from management. [ ] [ ]

  3. To risk or weaken something.

    1. His health was compromised by stress. [ ] [ ]
    2. The scandal could compromise the president's authority, damaging his reputation significantly. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "compromise" in English means: An agreement where everyone involved gives up something they want., Something that combines qualities of two different things., The act of accepting that you will reduce your demands or change your opinion in order to reach an agreement with someone..

The phonetic transcription of "compromise" is /ˈkɒm.prə.maɪz/ in British English and /ˈkɑːm.prə.maɪz/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "compromise": agreement, negotiation, adjustment, settlement, middle ground, understanding, concession.

Example usage of "compromise": "Let's compromise and order pizza.". More examples on the page.