What does it mean to 'temper' a situation?

To 'temper' a situation means to make it more acceptable or suitable, often by moderating or mitigating its intensity or harshness. This term originates from the process of tempering materials, particularly metals, where the properties are adjusted to achieve a desired balance of strength and flexibility.

In the context of a situation, tempering can involve softening a point of view, easing tensions, or finding a compromise that makes a scenario more amenable to all parties involved. This is particularly important in negotiations or conflict resolution, where a firm stance might escalate tensions, but a tempered approach can foster understanding and cooperation.

The other options suggest actions that do not align with the concept of tempering a situation. Making a situation more extreme would increase its intensity rather than moderate it. Criticizing harshly would likely exacerbate tensions rather than temper them. Ignoring a situation entirely would negate any attempt at moderation or improvement, which is contrary to the idea of tempering.