a modest force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a level of strength or influence that is not overwhelming or excessive, often in a context where restraint or moderation is implied. Example: "The team relied on a modest force to achieve their goals, ensuring that their approach remained sustainable and effective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The UK already has a modest force of 500 infantry in Iraq to help train the Iraqi army.

The Guardian

NATO has agreed to send a modest force with a very limited role, to help disarm the Albanian rebels, and to be there for just 30 days.

The New York Times

Assuming the necessary agreements can be reached, the United States and NATO are planning to keep a modest force in Afghanistan after 2014 to guard against terrorist threats and advise Afghan forces.

The New York Times

Many Iraqi and American officials are convinced that even a modest force would have been able to prevent chaos — not by fighting but by providing training, signals intelligence, and a symbolic presence.

The New Yorker

While a Turkish fleet had sufficed to dismantle a large part of Venice's empire, Bayezid, fearing that an alliance of Christian powers using his brother Cem might be formed against him, committed only a modest force against the Mamlūks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A rational defence review would oblige the RAF to face the reality that it needs a very small number of high-altitude interceptors and a modest force of ground-support aircraft.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

However, Clinton provided Cornwallis with a relatively modest force of British, German, and provincial (Loyalist) regiments about 3,000 men with which to accomplish all of this.

Wikipedia

The Pentagon could save billions by building a more modest force that would delay the new long-range bomber, cancel the new air launched cruise missile and construct fewer ballistic submarines, arms control advocates said.

Huffington Post

As of 2012 a modest Australian force numbering 1,550 personnel remains in Afghanistan where they are involved in counter-insurgency operations in Uruzgan province in conjunction United States and other coalition forces, including the Dutch prior to their withdrawal.

Wikipedia

Instead, they settled on a modest initial force, combined with precision bombing, that would be a "rolling start," paving the way for greater forces if needed.

The New York Times

"Along with other rural groups, there are thought to be more than 2 million landless farmers in Brazil, which makes them a modest political force in a population of 200 million people.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a modest force", ensure that the context clearly indicates the area in which the force is considered modest. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest force" when describing something that is, in fact, substantial or impactful. Ensure the descriptor aligns with the true scale of the force being discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest force" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a limited or restrained entity, often within military or political contexts. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a modest force" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a limited or restrained entity, often in military or political scenarios. Analysis of Ludwig examples reveals that it effectively communicates the idea of a small or strategically deployed group. It maintains a neutral to formal register, suitable for news, encyclopedic, and professional contexts. While the term's meaning is consistent, it's vital to ensure that its usage accurately reflects the actual scale of the force being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited contingent

Emphasizes the restricted size and scope of the group.

a restrained power

Highlights the controlled nature of the force or influence.

a moderate presence

Suggests a subtle and non-intrusive exertion of force.

a small detachment

Focuses on the few number of personnel involved.

a light touch

Implies minimal intervention or influence.

a gentle hand

Suggests a careful and non-aggressive approach.

a measured response

Highlights the calculated and limited nature of the reaction.

a controlled application

Indicates a deliberate and regulated use of force or resources.

a symbolic gesture

Focuses on the representational rather than practical impact.

a token effort

Suggests a minimal and often insufficient exertion.

FAQs

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

"A modest force" is used to describe a small or limited group, often military or political. For example: "Even "a modest force" could have prevented the chaos."

What is an alternative to the phrase "a modest force"?

Alternatives include "a limited contingent", "a restrained power", or "a moderate presence".

When is it appropriate to use the term "a modest force"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey that the size or impact of a group or effort is smaller than expected or sufficient. Ensure your audience understands the point of comparison.

Is "a modest force" always referring to military strength?

Not necessarily. While often used in military contexts, "a modest force" can describe any group or influence that is limited in scope, such as "a modest political force" or "a modest economic force".