In modest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In modest" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express humility or a lack of arrogance, but it is incomplete and lacks context. Example: "In modest terms, I believe we can improve our project outcomes."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

In modest neighborhoods like this, France can look remarkably harmonious.

The New York Times - Arts

In modest eateries with Bengali signboards, men bent over plates of rice and fish.

The New Yorker

They measured success in modest exchanges.

The New York Times - Magazine

He slept and ate in modest homes.

The Guardian

He grew up, he says, in "modest circumstances.

The Guardian - Film

The defendant grew up in modest circumstances in rural Bavaria.

The New Yorker

[But] cash generation is excellent, resulting in modest debt".

The Guardian - Business

Malraux was born in 1901, in modest bourgeois circumstances.

The New Yorker

Both grew up in modest circumstances, and both have daughters.

The Guardian

"Equity markets continue to price in modest economic recovery.

The New York Times

You will often find that the food punches above its weight in modest country establishments.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Complete the phrase by adding a noun or adjective after "modest" to clarify the meaning. For example, use "in modest circumstances" or "in a modest way".

Common error

Avoid using "In modest" as a standalone phrase. It requires additional context to convey a clear and complete thought. Without it, the sentence is grammatically incomplete.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "In modest" functions as a prepositional phrase. However, according to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically incomplete. Its role depends on the context it's used in, often acting as an adverbial modifier specifying the manner or condition.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "In modest" is grammatically incomplete and requires additional context to be meaningful. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's essential to complete the phrase with a noun or adjective to convey a clear and coherent thought. While examples exist across News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias they are rare. Consider using alternatives such as "in a modest way" or other phrases that more fully express the intended meaning. When used correctly, "in modest circumstances", for instance, it effectively communicates humility and simplicity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In a modest way

Adds the article "a" to create a more grammatically sound phrase and clarifies the manner of action.

In humble terms

Replaces "modest" with "humble" emphasizing a lack of arrogance in expression.

With modesty

Uses a noun to convey the quality of being humble or moderate.

In an unassuming manner

Emphasizes the lack of pretension or arrogance in behavior.

To a limited extent

Focuses on the restricted or moderate degree of something.

In simple terms

Highlights clarity and lack of complexity in explanation.

To a small degree

Indicates a minimal level or amount.

In a restrained fashion

Suggests a controlled and moderate approach.

With reservation

Implies a limited or cautious endorsement.

To a certain degree

Indicates that something is true or correct, but not completely.

FAQs

How can I use the word "modest" correctly in a phrase?

You can use "modest" correctly by following it with a noun to describe circumstances, gains, homes, etc. For example: "in modest circumstances", "in modest homes" or you can use the expression "in a modest way".

What are some alternatives to "In modest"?

Depending on the context, you could use "in humble terms", "with modesty", or "to a limited extent".

Is it grammatically correct to say just "In modest"?

No, "In modest" is not grammatically correct as a standalone phrase. It needs to be completed with additional words to form a coherent thought, such as "in modest surroundings" or "in a modest way".

What's the difference between "In modest circumstances" and "In humble circumstances"?

Both "in modest circumstances" and "in humble circumstances" refer to living without great wealth or luxury. The nuance lies in the connotation; "modest" emphasizes simplicity and moderation, while "humble" highlights a lack of pride or pretension.