a modest degree of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest degree of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or moderate amount of something, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The study showed a modest degree of improvement in the participants' performance after the training program."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Legislative leaders appeared to take a modest degree of umbrage.

The New York Times

Mr. Putin offered his critics a modest degree of accommodation.

The New York Times

He also achieved a modest degree of fame, appearing on the David Susskind and the David Letterman shows.

The New Yorker

Today, thanks in no small part to McGruder's accelerated success, the typical comics page offers at least a modest degree of diversity.

The New Yorker

Most modern companies rely on debt financing, and Islamic scholars advising the Dow Jones Islamic Index and Amana have decided that a modest degree of debt is acceptable.

The New York Times

For now, the militiamen and their families at Kibbutz Kabri are living in a modest degree of comfort that refugees elsewhere might envy.

The New York Times

Headed by a high-ranking military officer, the NSA is under the jurisdiction of the secretary of defense but maintains a modest degree of autonomy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He denied the Citigroup settlement, arguing that the fine was "pocket change" for a bank of Citi's size and saying that he had not been provided with the relevant facts to "exercise even a modest degree of independent judgment".

The Guardian - Money

Mr. Porter even achieved a modest degree of commercial and critical success, especially in Hartford, where in the late 1870s he set up a studio and began showing in local exhibitions and galleries.

The New York Times

One goal of education is to teach people to want the rewards life has to offer, but another goal is to teach them a modest degree of contempt for those rewards, too.

The New Yorker

Today's festivities coincide with the worst economic crisis for 80 years, brought about, we should remember, by the failure of the political class to offer the country even a modest degree of protection from a rampantly destructive City of London.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a modest degree of" when you want to express that something exists or is present to a limited extent, suggesting moderation or restraint. For example, "The project requires a modest degree of technical expertise."

Common error

Avoid using "a modest degree of" when the situation warrants a stronger expression. If the impact or extent is substantial, opt for phrases like "a significant degree of" or "a considerable amount of" to accurately reflect the scale.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest degree of" functions as a qualifier, modifying a noun to indicate a limited extent or amount. It introduces a sense of moderation or understatement. Ludwig examples confirm its common use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the expression "a modest degree of" serves as a qualifier to describe a limited extent or amount. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science domains. It is best employed when you want to downplay or temper the significance of something, conveying moderation and balance. While versatile, avoid overstating by opting to phrases like "a significant degree of" in case of considerable impact. When in doubt, consider that alternatives like "a slight amount of" or "a small measure of" can offer similar semantic precision. The choice depends on the intended level of formality and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight amount of

Replaces "degree" with "amount", emphasizing the quantity rather than intensity.

a small measure of

Substitutes "degree" with "measure", suggesting a quantified but limited extent.

a limited quantity of

Focuses on the restricted amount or number of something.

a moderate level of

Replaces "degree" with "level", indicating a position on a scale.

a certain extent of

Indicates a partial or limited scope.

a touch of

Implies a very small quantity, often used for abstract qualities.

a hint of

Suggests a subtle presence or indication.

a trace of

Indicates an extremely small amount, barely detectable.

a soupçon of

A more sophisticated way to express a very small amount, borrowed from French.

a modicum of

Emphasizes the smallness and inadequacy of the amount.

FAQs

How can I use "a modest degree of" in a sentence?

You can use "a modest degree of" to describe something that is present in a small or limited amount. For example, "The candidate possesses "a modest degree of" experience in the field."

What are some alternatives to "a modest degree of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a slight amount of", "a small measure of", or "a limited quantity of", depending on the specific context.

Is "a modest degree of" formal or informal?

"A modest degree of" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, and news contexts. More informal alternatives might include "a little bit of" or "a touch of".

How does "a modest degree of" differ from "a significant degree of"?

"A modest degree of" indicates a small or limited amount, while "a significant degree of" implies a substantial or noteworthy amount. The choice between them depends on the magnitude you wish to convey. Be careful of overstating or understating the real situation.