Both Uses of
subdue
in
Love's Labour's Lost
- The first and second cause will not serve my turn; the passado he respects not, the duello he regards not; his disgrace is to be called boy, but his glory is to subdue men.†
Scene 1.2 *subdue = control or put down by force or intimidation
- Only for praise; and praise we may afford To any lady that subdues a lord.†
Scene 4.1subdues = controls, prevents, or makes less intense
Definitions:
-
(1)
(subdue as a verb as in: subdued the opposition) to control, prevent, or make less intense -- sometimes through forceThe exact meaning of subdue depends upon its context. For example:
- "subdued a nation" -- defeated militarily and brought under control
- "subdued the fever" -- made it less intense or defeated it
- "subdued her enthusiasm" -- made it less intense
- "subdued her fears" -- made them less intense or overcame them
- "subdued my emotions" -- kept them under control
- "subdued the crowd" -- quieted or controlled it
-
(2)
(subdued adjective as in: subdued colors or mood) not intense, or less activeThe exact meaning of subdued depends upon its context. For example:
- "subdued colors" -- not too bright (soft, not intense)
- "a subdued voice" -- quiet; perhaps whispered
- "a subdued mood" -- quiet and less active; perhaps a bit sad or thoughtful
- "subdued summer activity" -- less active or busy than normal