ほどほど

ほどほど
adverb, na-adjective
in moderation; moderately
1. in moderation; moderately; to a reasonable extent
Not going to extremes, keeping things balanced.
(さけ)はほどほどに。
Drink alcohol in moderation.
仕事(しごと)もほどほどにして(やす)んでね。
Don't overwork yourself, take breaks.
ほどほどの距離(きょり)(たも)つ。
To maintain a moderate distance.

ほどほど comes from (ほど) (ほど) meaning "extent" or "degree."

COMMON PATTERNS:

  • ほどほどに: in moderation (adverb)
  • ほどほどの〜: moderate ~ (adjective)
  • ほどほどにしておく: to keep it moderate

USAGE CONTEXTS:

  • Advice about health (eating, drinking, working)
  • Relationships (maintaining appropriate distance)
  • Any situation where balance is important