compromise

Universal Words noun, verb noun 1 [C] an agreement made between two people or groups in which each side gives up some of the things they want so that both sides are happy at the end: After lengthy talks the two sides finally reached a compromise. * In any relationship, you have to make compromises. * a compromise solution / agreement / candidate 2 [C] ~ (between A and B) a solution to a problem in which two or more things cannot exist together as they are, in which each thing is reduced or changed slightly so that they can exist together: This model represents the best compromise between price and quality. 3 [U] the act of reaching a compromise: Compromise is an inevitable part of life. * There is no prospect of compromise in sight. verb 1 [V] ~ (with sb) (on sth) to give up some of your demands after a dispute with sb, in order to reach an agreement: Neither side is prepared to compromise. * After much argument, the judges finally compromised on (= agreed to give the prize to) the 18-year old pianist. * They were unwilling to compromise with the Communists. 2 ~ (on sth) to do sth that is against your principles or does not reach standards that you have set: [VN] I refuse to compromise my principles. * [V] We are not prepared to compromise on safety standards. 3 [VN] ~ sb/sth / yourself to bring sb/sth/yourself into danger or under suspicion, especially by acting in a way that is not very sensible: She had already compromised herself by accepting his invitation. * Defeat at this stage would compromise their chances (= reduce their chances) of reaching the finals of the competition.