moderation; standard; proper measure
Refers to a sense of appropriate limits, self-restraint, or a socially expected standard of behavior. Often used in phrases like 節度を守る (to observe moderation) or 節度がある (to have moderation).
You should observe moderation when drinking alcohol.
Let's enjoy drinking while keeping it moderate.
彼は何事にも節度がある人だ。
He is a person who has moderation in everything.
彼の発言にはいつも節度がある。
His remarks are always measured and restrained.
It's important to maintain a sense of proper distance even in friendships.
His behavior lacked any sense of restraint.
節制 emphasizes active self-discipline in abstaining from excess (e.g., food or drink), whereas 節度 is the broader sense of knowing and keeping proper limits.
放縦 means unrestrained self-indulgence with no regard for limits, the opposite of 節度's sense of proper restraint.
節度 (せつど, moderation/restraint) and 制度 (せいど, a system or institution) sound similar but refer to completely different concepts.
節度 means moderation or restraint in behavior, whereas 節操 means steadfast loyalty to one's principles, not moderation.
jiedushi; regional military governor (ancient China)
Compound of 節 (restraint, moderation) and 度 (degree, limit). The combination conveys the idea of a measured limit or standard.