a modest array of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest array of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or limited selection of items or options in a particular context. Example: "The exhibition featured a modest array of local artists showcasing their work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

While the Giants have subtly incorporated a modest array of new faces, the Jets have made training camp a circus.

The New York Times

Freeview built an impressively large consumer base, driven by very low cost set-top boxes and a modest array of additional channels.

The Guardian

For those more conventionally thirsty, a modest array of beer and wine, targeted toward the thoughtful drinker, is offered at reasonable prices: Lindemans framboise, sharp and tangy, makes any panel discussion a shade bubblier; cabernet and sauvignon blanc, from South Africa and the Loire Valley, are mellow and smooth.

The New Yorker

Looking at the new bags (including the Betty, a simple design with folded corners on the flap, starting around $1,550, and a reversible, unisex suede tote for $1,450), the jewelry, the shoes and a modest array of clothes, you can identify some of Mr. Slimane's design details.

The New York Times

By contrast, Curacao has a modest array of resorts catering mainly to a Dutch, British and South American clientèle.

Forbes

When conditions become favourable, S. cerevisiae is able to grow on a modest array of fermentable and non-fermentable carbon sources (mostly six-carbon sugars).

eLife

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The administration has planned a more modest array of events this time around, reflecting a less jubilant public mood than four years ago and diminished demand among Obama supporters.

The New York Times

When two days of press previews kick off Wednesday morning, journalists will see a relatively modest array of world premieres — and by all indications, an eclectic mix of vehicles that do not seem especially well suited to New Yorkers or their daily driving needs.

The New York Times

There was a considerably more modest array of artworks in the sale, which the small boutique firm had obviously struggled to cobble together — just 37 works that were estimated to bring $73.6 million to $110.7 million.

The New York Times - Arts

Two converted buildings and a former piano factory in the Camden Town neighborhood have been joined to create four permanent galleries offering a modest but stunning array of Jewish ritual objects, a broad history of the Jews in England, a look at early-20th-century Jewish immigration, and a glimpse of the Holocaust through the life of a single survivor.

The New York Times - Arts

The modest array here always includes kimchi, the fiery fermented-cabbage staple, along with, possibly, strips of radish in a sweet-and-tart marinade, stewed bean curd, a small brick of omelet and a cool potato salad.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a modest array of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the limited selection is being contrasted with. This helps to highlight the 'modest' aspect effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest array of" when describing a selection that is actually quite extensive or diverse. This can create confusion and undermine your credibility. Be truthful with describing the size of the selection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest array of" functions as a pre-modifying adjective phrase, qualifying a noun. It describes the quantity or extent of the noun (usually a collection of items or options), indicating that it is limited or not extensive. This is supported by Ludwig AI's confirmation of correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest array of" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a limited selection of items or options. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not extremely common, it finds frequent use in News & Media and Science, conveying a sense of intentional limitation or understatedness. When employing this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the quantity being described and consider the context to avoid any misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited selection of

Replaces 'array' with 'selection' and 'modest' with 'limited', emphasizing the restricted quantity.

a small collection of

Substitutes 'array' with 'collection' and 'modest' with 'small', focusing on the diminutive size.

a restricted range of

Emphasizes the limitation in variety rather than quantity by using 'range' instead of 'array'.

a limited number of

Replaces 'array' with 'number', quantifying the items, emphasizing their scarcity.

a handful of

An informal expression denoting a small quantity, differing in register from the original phrase.

a scattering of

Suggests a sparse and distributed arrangement, altering the visual imagery of the phrase.

a smattering of

Indicates a superficial or limited knowledge or experience, subtly shifting the context.

a token assortment of

Implies that the assortment is present more as a symbolic gesture than a genuine offering.

a sparse offering of

Highlights the meagerness of the offering, adding a sense of scarcity.

a narrow spectrum of

Focuses on the limited diversity within the array, changing the perspective from quantity to variety.

FAQs

What does "a modest array of" mean?

The phrase "a modest array of" refers to a small or limited selection of items or options. It suggests that the variety or quantity is not extensive but is present in some form.

What can I say instead of "a modest array of"?

You can use alternatives like "a limited selection of", "a small collection of", or "a restricted range of" depending on the context.

How formal is the phrase "a modest array of"?

The phrase "a modest array of" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It is suitable for use in most writing contexts, including news articles, academic papers, and business communications.

Is it appropriate to use "a modest array of" when describing something positive?

Yes, the phrase "a modest array of" can be used to describe something positive, especially when highlighting simplicity, focus, or intentional curation. The key is to ensure the context makes it clear that the limited selection is a deliberate choice, not a deficiency.