English Reference
adjective

compromising

adj.
US /ˈkɑmpɹəˌmaɪzɪŋ/ UK /kˈɒmpɹəmˌaɪzɪŋ/ com·pro·mis·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    showing something about you that you would rather keep secret because it is embarrassing or wrong.

    revealing information or circumstances that are socially damaging or potentially ruinous to a person's reputation.

    Simple

    The politician resigned after a compromising photo appeared in the morning newspaper.

    In context

    The investigator discovered several compromising documents in the safe that linked the CEO directly to the offshore tax evasion scheme.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it describes.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    willing to change what you want so that everyone can agree.

    demonstrating a willingness to make concessions or reach a middle ground in a dispute.

    Simple

    The manager took a compromising approach to solve the argument between the two teams.

    In context

    The diplomat's compromising stance during the initial negotiations paved the way for a comprehensive peace treaty between the two nations.

    Teacher's tip

    In modern English, 'uncompromising' is much more common than this positive sense; learners often use 'flexible' instead.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated