a modest demand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest demand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a request or requirement that is reasonable or not excessive. Example: "The organization made a modest demand for additional funding to support its community programs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Elsewhere in the work, the orchestra is asked to vocalize — a modest demand, compared with sections of the Violin Concerto, where some of the players had to stand up and perform on ocarinas and what looked like pennywhistles.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a modest demand, to give them the freedom to provide for themselves and their families, and the flexibility to take a day off work when they feel ill.

The Guardian - Opinion

Moreover, the Israeli Prime Minister forced the US President to relinquish a modest demand the latter had considered to fall under American national interests.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It is a very modest demand, totally consistent with previous U.S. statements, which would not plausibly lead to "losing all leverage" with Mubarak; it would not create a "power vacuum"; it would not reasonably lead to a perception that the U.S. was "engineering" Mubarak's ouster.

Huffington Post

The almost $5,000 price tag is a factor in modest demand.

The New York Times

With their health deteriorating, those inmates continuing to fast resumed eating after state prison officials met a few modest demands.

The New York Times

In Arizona, where I was minister for some time, I marched with workers in the Fight for 15 campaign who's modest demand was a raise to $25,000 per year for full-time work.

Vice

Indeed Hainan's international arrivals, most of whom come from Russia and neighbouring Asian countries, actually fell by 7% in 2013, compared with 2012, according to a report by Euromonitor International, a market research firm.One reason for such modest demand is that Hainan is simply out of reach for many.

The Economist

"When we see them violating rules, we should be very clear in our language".Yet even that modest demand is not a done deal.

The Economist

Stockpiles of gas are also growing, and weather analysts are expecting a warmer winter than last year, which should produce modest demand.

The New York Times

He predicted that "relatively modest demand growth is still going to result in solid occupancy growth".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a modest demand", ensure the context reflects genuine reasonableness. Use it to convey fairness and avoid any perception of being demanding or entitled.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest demand" when the request, though reasonable, has significant consequences. Ensure the "modest" aspect aligns with the impact, not just the surface-level request.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest demand" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object within a sentence. It typically describes a request, claim, or requirement that is considered to be reasonable, limited in scope, or not excessive, as Ludwig suggests.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest demand" is a noun phrase used to describe a request that is reasonable and not excessive. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While its frequency is rare, its appropriate use enhances clarity and conveys fairness. When employing this phrase, ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning of reasonableness to prevent misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reasonable request

Emphasizes the fairness and appropriateness of the request.

a small requirement

Focuses on the limited scope and scale of the requirement.

a humble appeal

Highlights the unassuming and respectful nature of the request.

an unpretentious request

Similar to humble but focuses on lack of ostentation.

a limited claim

Suggests the demand is constrained in its extent or scope.

an undemanding condition

Indicates condition is not difficult to satisfy.

an insignificant imposition

Implies the demand places minimal burden or inconvenience.

a slight imposition

The demand is presented as carrying little weight.

a minimal expectation

Indicates a baseline level of anticipation or request.

a trivial solicitation

Highlights that the request is of little importance.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest demand" to describe a request that is reasonable or not excessive. For example, "The striking drivers made "a modest demand" for the freedom to provide for their families".

What are some alternatives to saying "a modest demand"?

Alternatives to "a modest demand" include phrases such as "a reasonable request", "a small requirement", or "a humble appeal", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "a modest demand"?

While "a modest demand" is grammatically correct, its appropriateness depends on the context. Ensure that the request genuinely reflects reasonableness and does not downplay the significance of the issue at hand.

What's the difference between "a modest demand" and "a significant demand"?

"A modest demand" refers to a request that is small or reasonable, while "a significant demand" indicates a request that is substantial or important. The choice depends on the actual scale and impact of the demand being described.