a modest clip

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest clip" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a moderate or reasonable pace, speed, or rate, often in contexts related to progress or movement. Example: "The project is progressing at a modest clip, allowing us to meet our deadlines without feeling rushed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

If the Greek economy could manage to grow at even a modest clip, it would have little trouble servicing its debt.

The New Yorker

Mr. Bernanke's view is that the economic recovery is continuing, though at a modest clip, and that recent developments -- the stock market's swoon, Europe's financial turmoil and weak job creation -- are discouraging but do not yet justify additional monetary stimulus.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Employment is growing at a steady, though modest, clip.

The New York Times

According to Goodman's math, nearly 7 million homes will be lost to bank repossession, representing almost 18 months' worth of existing-home sales (currently at modest clip of 5.2 million annually).

Forbes

Its revenue grew at a modest 9% annual clip over the past five years, even after acquisitions.

Forbes

Their story is told in "Paper Clips," a modest documentary directed by Elliot Berlin and Joe Fab.

The New York Times

With a few tweaks to make it television-ready, and a modest outlay by the charter center, the clip has been playing this week as a 30-second commercial on NY1, the New York City cable news channel.

The New York Times

As a result of such appearances, the Tax Dodgers gained a modest following, and a friend of Mr. Shieber's sent him a clip of the group in action.

The New York Times

KCCI's clip of Trump's Iowa comments is on YouTube, with a modest number of viewers.

The Washington Post

That's a modest 13.7 price-earnings ratio for a company growing sales at a 13% clip.

Forbes

It feels more like a "Breaking Bad" nook, with a modest collection of props and costumes and a couple of video screens, one running clips from the show, the other interviews with actors and writers.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a modest clip" to describe progress, growth, or movement that is happening at a moderate and sustainable rate. This implies that while things are moving forward, they are not happening too quickly.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest clip" when referring to a physical object like a paper clip or a hair clip. The phrase specifically refers to a rate or pace of progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest clip" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing the manner or rate at which an action is performed or a process unfolds. Ludwig examples show it often characterizes economic growth or employment rates.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a modest clip" describes a moderate pace or rate of progress, typically used in economic or business contexts. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for formal writing. While not extremely common, it effectively conveys a sense of steady, sustainable advancement. Consider using alternatives such as "at a moderate pace" or "at a steady rate" for variety. Avoid misinterpreting "clip" as a physical object. The phrase's neutrality makes it appropriate for news and business reporting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a moderate pace

Replaces "clip" with the more common "pace", maintaining a similar level of formality.

at a steady rate

Substitutes both "modest" and "clip" with more neutral terms, emphasizing consistency.

at a reasonable speed

Focuses on the speed aspect, using "reasonable" instead of "modest".

at a gentle tempo

Emphasizes a slow and unhurried pace.

at a gradual increase

Highlights the gradual nature of the increase, suitable for contexts involving growth or expansion.

at a measured rhythm

Suggests a carefully controlled and deliberate pace.

at a sustainable level

Implies a pace that can be maintained over a long period.

at a conservative estimate

Focuses on a cautious and lower-end estimation.

at a tempered velocity

Velocity emphasizes speed, tempered emphasizes controlled.

at a limited degree

Degree emphasizes limited amount.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest clip" to describe a rate of progress or movement that is moderate and sustainable. For example, "The economy is growing at "a modest clip", ensuring long-term stability."

What are some alternatives to "a modest clip"?

Alternatives include "at a moderate pace", "at a steady rate", or "at a reasonable speed". These options offer similar meanings while varying slightly in emphasis.

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

Yes, "a modest clip" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in business or economic contexts where describing the rate of progress is necessary. However, consider the audience and choose the most precise wording for clarity.

What does "a modest clip" imply about the rate of progress?

Using "a modest clip" implies that progress is happening at a moderate, unhurried pace. It suggests stability and sustainability rather than rapid advancement.