The happy/golden mean
noun phrase
A desirable middle position in between two extremes, balance.
In life, it's important to find the happy mean between work and leisure.
Often appears as...
- find the happy/golden mean
- achieve the happy/golden mean
noun phrase
In philosophy, specifically in Aristotle's works, the virtue that lies in between deficiency and excess.
In Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics, bravery is posed as the happy mean between rashness and cowardice.
Often appears as...
- aristotle's happy/golden mean
- virtue as the happy/golden mean
Usage tips
Academic
noun phrase
A desirable middle position in between two extremes, balance.
In life, it's important to find the happy mean between work and leisure.
Often appears as...
- find the happy/golden mean
- achieve the happy/golden mean
noun phrase
In philosophy, specifically in Aristotle's works, the virtue that lies in between deficiency and excess.
In Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics, bravery is posed as the happy mean between rashness and cowardice.
Often appears as...
- aristotle's happy/golden mean
- virtue as the happy/golden mean
Usage tips
Academic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Avoid Extremes
Use 'the happy mean' to express avoiding extreme behaviors or situations.
He doesn't diet or overeat; he prefers the happy mean.
Pro Tip 2/3Context Importance
Understand the scenario when using 'the happy mean' to suggest a balanced approach.
Our team always tries to find the happy mean when making decisions.
Pro Tip 3/3Neutral Tone
The phrase 'the happy mean' carries a neutral emotion and is used in objective discussions.
As a manager, I try to find the happy mean in employee satisfaction.
Pro Tip 1/3Avoid Extremes
Use 'the happy mean' to express avoiding extreme behaviors or situations.
He doesn't diet or overeat; he prefers the happy mean.
Pro Tip 2/3Context Importance
Understand the scenario when using 'the happy mean' to suggest a balanced approach.
Our team always tries to find the happy mean when making decisions.
Pro Tip 3/3Neutral Tone
The phrase 'the happy mean' carries a neutral emotion and is used in objective discussions.
As a manager, I try to find the happy mean in employee satisfaction.
Pro Tip 1/3Avoid Extremes
Use 'the happy mean' to express avoiding extreme behaviors or situations.
He doesn't diet or overeat; he prefers the happy mean.
Pro Tip 2/3Context Importance
Understand the scenario when using 'the happy mean' to suggest a balanced approach.
Our team always tries to find the happy mean when making decisions.
Pro Tip 3/3Neutral Tone
The phrase 'the happy mean' carries a neutral emotion and is used in objective discussions.
As a manager, I try to find the happy mean in employee satisfaction.
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