curtail
The definition for curtail is "To make less." Used in a sentence: Doreen decided to curtail her spending after she bounced a check.
moderate
The definition for moderate is "Tending toward the average." Used in a sentence: The best–selling writer was disappointed; his new novel was only a moderate success.
pretense
The definition for pretense is "False intention or purpose." Used in a sentence: The jewel thief entered the mansion under the pretense of fixing a leaky faucet.
repel
The definition for repel is "To resist, reject." Used in a sentence: The soldiers made a massive charge to repel the invaders.
straddle
The definition for straddle is "To favor opposing sides." Used in a sentence: Kia straddled the issue, not wanting to say whether James or Tara was right.