Definition

Adverb: - In an excessive or unrestrained manner; without moderation: The word "intemperately" describes the action of doing something to an extreme degree, lacking self-control or restraint. It often relates to overindulgence in pleasures, especially concerning food or drink.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • He drank intemperately at the party, which worried his friends.
  • She spent money intemperately, quickly exhausting her savings.
  • The critic praised the film intemperately, calling it the greatest of all time.

Advanced Usage

• Used to modify verbs describing consumption or behavior: "Intemperately" most naturally modifies verbs related to indulgence (e.g., drink, eat, spend, speak).
  • He spoke intemperately during the debate, making several exaggerated claims.
• Often implies a negative judgment: The use of "intemperately" typically carries a connotation of criticism regarding the lack of moderation.
  • The ruler governed intemperately, ignoring the counsel of his advisors.

Variants and Related Words

• Intemperate (Adjective): Showing a lack of moderation or control.
  • His intemperate habits led to health problems.
• Intemperance (Noun): Lack of moderation or restraint, especially in drinking alcohol.
  • The novel explores the theme of intemperance and its consequences.

Synonyms

• Excessively
• Immoderately
• Overly
• Unrestrainedly

Antonyms

• Moderately
• Temperately
• Sparingly
• Restrainedly

Notes on Usage

"Intemperately" is a formal adverb. In everyday speech, words like "excessively" or "too much" are more common. It is primarily used in written English, such as in literature, criticism, or formal reports.

Adverb

1. indulging excessively
   • he drank heavily