a modest amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quantity that is not large or excessive, often implying a sense of moderation or humility. Example: "The donation made by the community was a modest amount, but it made a significant difference in the lives of those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It would also pay Mr. Eich a modest amount.

The New York Times

Set a realistic goal to lose a modest amount.

The New York Times

He always seemed to have a modest amount of money.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One of the nice things about getting older is a modest amount of stored experience.

The New York Times

Healthy eating and a modest amount of exercise are the keys.

The New York Times

So far, officials have described their case with a modest amount of detail.

The New York Times

Investors have put $2.5 million into the company so far, a modest amount.

The New York Times - Tech

This seems a modest amount to invest in world health, as well as world peace.

The New York Times

Help only those who can stay in their homes with a modest amount of aid.

The New York Times

So he invested a modest amount and was hoping for a good return".

The New York Times

This paid for a modest amount of equipment & provided Actors Equit.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a modest amount", ensure the context makes clear what the amount is modest relative to. For example, "a modest amount of funding" implies the funding is small compared to the overall need or typical investments.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest amount" when the quantity is actually substantial or significant. Using it in such cases can undermine your credibility and create confusion for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest amount" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a quantity that is neither large nor excessive. As Ludwig AI points out, its usage is grammatically correct and conveys a sense of moderation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

14%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a modest amount" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe a quantity that is neither large nor excessive. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its function is to qualify nouns, implying a sense of moderation. While "a modest amount" finds frequent usage in News & Media, it's also common in Scientific and Encyclopedic texts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clarifies what the quantity is modest in relation to, and avoid overstating the significance of the quantity. Alternatives such as "a small quantity" or "a reasonable sum" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small quantity

This alternative uses a more general term for 'amount', implying a small but not necessarily insignificant quantity.

a reasonable sum

This alternative is particularly suitable when referring to money, suggesting a fair and not excessive amount.

a limited quantity

This alternative emphasizes the restriction or boundary on the amount available.

a fair share

This alternative suggests an equitable or just portion, implying moderation and balance.

a touch

This alternative implies a very small quantity, often used metaphorically or when referring to intangible things.

a dash

This alternative suggests adding a very small quantity, mainly used when referring to ingredients.

a trickle

This alternative implies a slow and small flow, mainly used when referring to liquids or abstract concepts.

a modicum

This alternative is a more formal and sophisticated way of expressing a small amount.

a degree

This alternative is generally used with unmeasurable quantities.

an iota

This alternative suggests an extremely small, almost negligible amount.

FAQs

How can I use "a modest amount" in a sentence?

You can use "a modest amount" to describe a quantity that is not large or excessive, such as "He inherited "a modest amount" of money from his grandfather" or "She added "a modest amount" of salt to the soup".

What are some alternatives to "a modest amount"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a small quantity", "a reasonable sum", or "a limited quantity".

Is it appropriate to use "a modest amount" in formal writing?

Yes, "a modest amount" is appropriate for formal writing as it is a clear and neutral way to describe a quantity that is not large. However, consider whether a more precise term would be more suitable for your specific context.

What's the difference between "a modest amount" and "a small amount"?

While both phrases indicate a quantity that is not large, "a modest amount" often carries a connotation of being reasonable, appropriate, or understated, whereas "a small amount" simply indicates a quantity that is not large without necessarily implying anything about its appropriateness or significance.