a modest decrease in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest decrease in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a small or slight reduction in a particular quantity or measurement. Example: "The report indicated a modest decrease in sales compared to the previous quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As compared to individual tools, DIOPT shows increased sensitivity with only a modest decrease in specificity.

Harvard University

Even a modest decrease in those rates could be enough to cause future outbreaks.

The Washington Post

A modest decrease in reported crime is expected by year's end.

The New York Times

Animals with a deletion in mec-10 showed only a partial loss of touch sensitivity and a modest decrease in the size of the mechanoreceptor current (MRC).

Stanford University

In support of this, our results demonstrate a modest decrease in ΔF508 CFTR aggregates suggesting BAG3 may be a mechanistic target.

Nature

In HIV-infected individuals5 and in individuals co-infected with hepatitis C virus6, use of interferon results in a modest decrease in HIV viral load in the blood.

Nature

The firm found a modest decrease in carbon emissions between 2016 and 2017, in part because of a warmer-than-usual winter that didn't require as much heating.

The Guardian

Furthermore, inundation with cool water decreased skin temperatures more quickly than the clothing insulating case and led to a modest decrease in the burn extent.

Burns

At a given temperature, increasing pressure resulted in a modest decrease in the rate of NO removal, with little effect on the amount of NO2 and N2O formed.

Combustion and Flame

It showed a modest decrease in excess weight gain.

Duke University

Shutting down properties may lead to a "modest" decrease in revenue, but the company's margins will improve, he added.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prefer "a modest decrease in" when the changes are noteworthy, yet still minor. If the change is bigger use another phrase like "significant decline".

Common error

Avoid using "a modest decrease in" to describe large or drastic changes. This can create a false impression and mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest decrease in" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It describes a reduction that is not substantial, as supported by Ludwig and its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

68%

News & Media

20%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a modest decrease in" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe a slight reduction or decline. According to Ludwig, its applications span various contexts, including science, news, and academia. While versatile, it's important to use this phrase appropriately to reflect a truly 'modest' change and avoid misleading your audience. If a significant change occurs it is recommend to use a different phrase. The numerous real-world examples provided by Ludwig show the breadth of its applicability, reinforcing its standing as a useful phrase in clear and precise writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight reduction in

This alternative emphasizes the small degree of reduction.

a small decline in

This option uses "decline" instead of "decrease", suggesting a gradual reduction.

a marginal drop in

This alternative highlights the insignificance of the drop.

a mild lessening of

This option employs "lessening" to suggest a gentle reduction.

a limited downturn in

This alternative emphasizes the restriction and small impact of the downturn.

a negligible fall in

This phrase stresses that the fall is so small it's almost not worth mentioning.

a diminutive reduction of

This option uses "diminutive" to exaggerate how tiny the reduction is.

a tempered decline within

This choice emphasizes that the decline is controlled or not severe.

a contained decrease throughout

This phrase highlights that the decrease is kept within certain limits.

a superficial dip in

This option suggests that the dip is only on the surface and not fundamental.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest decrease in" to describe a slight reduction in something. For example: "There was a modest decrease in reported crime this year."

What's a good alternative to "a modest decrease in"?

Alternatives include "slight reduction in", "small decline in", or "marginal drop in", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a modest decrease in" when the reduction is substantial?

No, "a modest decrease in" implies a small reduction. If the decrease is significant, consider using phrases like "a substantial decrease", "a significant decline", or "a considerable reduction".

What's the difference between "a modest decrease in" and "a slight decrease in"?

While both phrases indicate a small reduction, "a modest decrease in" might suggest a slightly more noticeable change than "a slight decrease in". The best choice depends on the context and the degree of emphasis you want to give to the reduction.