Compromise

Definition

Compromise refers to an agreement or settlement of a dispute where each side makes concessions. It can also mean weakening or undermining a principle or quality.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːmprəˌmaɪz/
• Respelling: KAHM-pruh-myze

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmprəmaɪz/
• Respelling: KOM-pruh-myz

Etymology

The word "compromise" originates from the Medieval Latin "compromissum," meaning "mutual promise." It is formed from the Latin root "com-" (together) and "promittere" (to promise). The word entered Middle English from Old French "compromis."

Derivatives

• Compromising (adjective)
• Compromiser (noun)
• Uncompromising (adjective)
• Compromised (verb, past tense)
• Recompromise (verb)

Synonyms

• Settlement
• Agreement
• Concession

Antonyms

• Disagreement
• Stalemate
• None

Usage

The noun "compromise" is often used in situations where two or more parties reach a mutually acceptable solution by each giving up something. For example, "They reached a compromise after hours of negotiation." The verb form is used to describe the action of reaching such an agreement or to indicate weakening something, as in "The security of the system was compromised."

Related Terms

• Negotiation: A discussion aimed at reaching an agreement.
• Concession: Something given up or agreed upon during negotiations.
• Arbitration: A method of resolving disputes by involving a neutral third party.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An agreement where each side makes concessions: Refers to a situation where both parties involved in a dispute agree to give up part of their demands to reach a settlement.
  • Example: "The labor dispute was resolved through compromise."

Verb

• To make concessions to reach an agreement: Refers to the action of settling a dispute by mutual concession.
  • Example: "The two sides compromised on the terms of the contract."
• To weaken or undermine: Refers to lowering the standard or quality of something.
  • Example: "The integrity of the data was compromised due to the security breach."