The term "be intemperate" refers to someone who lacks self-control or moderation, usually with regards to alcohol consumption. Its pronunciation is [biː ɪnˈtɛmp(ə)rət], with the stress on the second syllable. The "be" is pronounced similarly to the word "bee", while the "in" is pronounced as in "hint". The word "temperate" is pronounced as "tem-per-it", with a short "e" sound in the first and third syllables. The prefix "in-" is added to indicate the opposite meaning, making it "be intemperate".
To be intemperate means to lack self-control or restraint, especially in regards to one's actions, emotions, or consumption of substances. It refers to the inability to moderate or regulate one's behavior, often resulting in excessive indulgence and immoderate actions or speech. Being intemperate implies a disregard for moderation or discretion, demonstrating an uncontrollable and excessive nature.
In the context of emotions, being intemperate suggests an inability to manage or control one's feelings, leading to outbursts of anger, frustration, or excitement that are out of proportion to the situation. This lack of emotional restraint often negatively affects personal relationships and interactions with others.
When applied to substance use, intemperance refers to excessive or immoderate consumption of alcohol, drugs, or any other addictive substances. It implies a lack of self-discipline and an inability to moderate one's intake, which can lead to harmful consequences on physical and mental health.
In summary, to be intemperate is to display a lack of self-control or restraint in one's actions, emotions, or substance consumption. It is characterized by an excessive and immoderate behavior that disregards the bounds of moderation and discretion.
The word "intemperate" comes from the Latin root "in" meaning "not" or "without", and the Latin word "temperatus" which means "moderate" or "restrained". Together, "in" and "temperatus" form the Latin word "intemperatus" which means "not moderate" or "immoderate". This Latin term was later borrowed into Middle English as "intemperat", and eventually evolved into the word "intemperate" as it is known today.