the happy/golden mean
golden mean
1. mathematics A division in a line such that the proportion of the whole to the larger area is equal to the proportion of the larger area to the smaller one. The mathematical golden mean has been employed in all manner of things, not the least in art, architecture, and even philosophy.
2. A general rule of moderation, avoiding both extreme excess and extreme deficiency. Some people will argue ardently against ever consuming alcohol, but to me, as long as you follow the golden mean, you'll be just fine. There are pros and cons to both approaches, so why don't we aim for a golden mean that incorporates elements of both?
See also: golden, mean
happy mean
A general rule of moderation, avoiding both extreme excess and extreme deficiency. Some people will argue ardently against ever consuming alcohol, but to me, as long as you follow the happy mean, you'll be just fine. There are pros and cons to both approaches, so why don't we aim for a happy mean that incorporates elements of both?
See also: happy, mean
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
the golden mean
the avoidance of extremes.This phrase translates the Latin phrase aurea mediocritas , which comes from the Roman poet Horace's Odes.
See also: golden, mean
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
the happy/golden ˈmean
(approving) a course of action that is not extreme: To be honest, I don’t like either of the proposals. What we really need is a golden mean between the two.See also: golden, happy, mean
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- golden mean
- the golden mean
- the golden section
- section
- golden ratio
- golden section
- stake out
- stake someone/something out
- keep within
- keep within (something or some place)