a modest argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an argument that is not overly ambitious or assertive, often suggesting a reasonable or humble stance on a particular issue. Example: "In her essay, she presented a modest argument that acknowledged the complexities of the topic without making sweeping claims."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Its presence in both Actinobacteria and Endobacteria is consistent with posibacterial monophyly and provides a modest argument for excluding the root from Posibacteria plus Eurybacteria.

Biology Direct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

And he has framed his book less as an explanation of why tough circumstances mean you're likely to be successful than as a more modest argument that they don't mean you're bound to fail.

Independent

So, for example, if we take the target to be a skeptic who demands certainty, then a modest transcendental argument will not suffice.

SEP

A modest transcendental argument would then aim to show that a belief whose coherence with the other beliefs is challenged so coheres after all.

SEP

But if we take the skeptic to be one who demands merely justification that may nonetheless be fallible, and who claims we do not have even this because our beliefs are not properly supported by our generally accepted cognitive norms, then (it is claimed) a modest transcendental argument can indeed be useful.

SEP

Yet critics argue that even this modest argument is unsound.

SEP

The modest argument agrees that fictional Caligula has no reasons to torture others.

SEP

Other customers have more modest arguments.

The New York Times

A more modest Kantian argument establishes that an internally coherent Caligula is conceivable, that is, he can be thought without contradiction, but it is incompatible with the peculiar conditions of moral sensibility (Engstrom 2009, 243, § III.7; Bagnoli 2009c; Engstrom 2011; Bagnoli 2011b).

SEP

He did not accept the three traditional theoretical arguments for the existence of God (though he was sympathetic to a modest version of the teleological argument).

SEP

On this reading, then, Skolem's Paradox plays only a modest role in Skolem's overall argument.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a modest argument" when you want to present a claim that is not overly ambitious or assertive. It's particularly useful when acknowledging the complexities of a topic.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest argument" when the evidence strongly supports a more forceful conclusion. Overly downplaying a well-supported argument can undermine its credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest argument" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an argument characterized by its limited scope or understated nature. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest argument" is a noun phrase used to describe an argument that is limited in scope or ambition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for diverse writing styles. It is frequently found in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, remember that it conveys reasonableness and avoids overly strong claims. Alternatives include "a limited contention" or "a restrained assertion", offering similar nuances for different contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited contention

Emphasizes the narrow scope or confined nature of the argument.

a restrained assertion

Highlights the controlled and moderate manner in which the argument is presented.

a humble claim

Suggests that the argument is put forth without arrogance or pretension.

a conservative proposal

Indicates that the argument is cautious and avoids radical or extreme positions.

a tempered statement

Implies that the argument has been carefully moderated to avoid being overly forceful.

a circumspect argument

Highlights the cautious and well-considered nature of the argument.

a small suggestion

Downplays the significance or impact of the argument.

a slight point

Indicates that the argument is minor or inconsequential.

a measured argument

Highlights the careful and deliberate consideration given to the argument.

a reasonable case

Suggests that the argument is logical and well-supported, though not necessarily groundbreaking.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest argument" to introduce a point that is not overly ambitious or assertive. For example, "In her essay, she presented "a modest argument" that acknowledged the complexities of the topic without making sweeping claims."

What are some alternatives to "a modest argument"?

Alternatives to "a modest argument" include "a limited contention", "a restrained assertion", or "a humble claim". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a modest argument"?

It is appropriate to use "a modest argument" when you want to express a viewpoint that is not overly forceful or ambitious, often when acknowledging the limitations or complexities of a particular issue.

What is the difference between "a modest argument" and "a strong argument"?

"A modest argument" suggests a limited or humble claim, while "a strong argument" implies a well-supported and persuasive case. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the strength and ambition of the point you are making.