Words / C2

TEP-id/ˈtepɪd/

Tepid means only slightly warm, or of a reaction, unenthusiastic: tepid water, a tepid response. Lukewarm is the everyday twin; half-hearted is of effort. Tentative (already in the dictionary) is hesitant and provisional, not merely cool. Do not file tepid “noted” as a close-out of a flame risk.

Meaning

Only slightly warm; of a response, unenthusiastic.

Examples

• “Tepid “noted” beside an open flame risk is not a decision.”
• “Lukewarm is everyday. Half-hearted is of will. Tentative is cautious and not yet fixed (already in the dictionary). Warm applause can wait. An owner and a date are the heat that counts. Cool wording is allowed; an open flame is not.”

Good to know

Lukewarm; half-hearted. Everyday: lukewarm. Contrast: tentative (provisional — already in this dictionary). Cool tone ≠ an open flame left unowned.

Near in meaning

lukewarm

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