Both Uses of
subdue
in
Measure for Measure
- Most dangerous Is that temptation that doth goad us on To sin in loving virtue: never could the strumpet, With all her double vigour, art, and nature, Once stir my temper; but this virtuous maid Subdues me quite.†
Scene 2.2 *subdues = controls, prevents, or makes less intense
- Not so, not so: his life is parallel'd Even with the stroke and line of his great justice; He doth with holy abstinence subdue That in himself which he spurs on his power To qualify in others: were he meal'd With that which he corrects, then were he tyrannous; But this being so, he's just.†
Scene 4.2subdue = control or put down by force or intimidation
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
- (3) (meaning too rare to warrant focus)