a modest paper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest paper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a paper that is not overly ambitious or grand in scope, often implying simplicity or humility in its content. Example: "In my opinion, this is a modest paper that presents the findings clearly without unnecessary embellishments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

In a modest paper published in the March 5 , 1971 issue of Nature, the geophysicist Jason Morgan proposed that Hawaii and other isolated volcanic hot spots were surface manifestations of what he called mantle plumes columns of hot (although not molten) rock, about a hundred miles in diameter, that rose from the core-mantle boundary and generated magma as they neared the surface.

The New Yorker

In a modest paper published in the March 5, 1971, issue of Nature, the geophysicist Jason Morgan proposed that Hawaii and other isolated volcanic hot spots were surface manifestations of what he called mantle plumes — columns of hot (although not molten) rock, about a hundred miles in diameter, that rose from the core-mantle boundary and generated magma as they neared the surface.

The New Yorker

Though there is a modest paper trail of Brocchian transmutation published in English in the years 1816 1830, only two such references are definitely known to have been read by Charles Darwin.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

With respect to citation frequency, Newman (2009) has reported a "first-mover advantage", suggesting that a researcher publishing a modest paper on next year's hot topic will accrue more citations than if they had instead published an outstanding paper on the current year's topic.

F1000Research

Here are my specific recommendations:   Dr. Madan describes the "first mover advantage" (Newman, 2009): "a researcher publishing a modest paper on next year's hot topic will accrue more citations than if they had instead published an outstanding paper on the current year's topic".

F1000Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But over all, Mr. Gonzales left a somewhat modest paper trail, in contrast to his work as White House counsel in Mr. Bush's first term, when he wrote and consulted on a series of legal memorandums, primarily in 2002, as the Bush administration worked out its legal strategy in the fight against terror.

The New York Times

Mac David, 72, is using his own time and money to write a "modest historical paper" on the project, for free distribution to local libraries and historical societies.

Los Angeles Times

The difference is even more pronounced when one compares the modest paper to-do list with the ultimate distraction, a smartphone – source of text messages, Instagram updates and PPI calls.

The Guardian

I believe aerosol transmission could explain some nosocomial infections and affect the experimental results of other assays where liquid is transferred, so I hope this modest paper will benefit the fields of assay development, bacteriology and aerobiology in some small way.

F1000Research

It's been the ability to see around corners that has ushered him from two modest papers inherited from his father in Adelaide to the head of a company with about $33 billion in annual revenues.

The New York Times

To my surprise, the publication went largely unnoticed, even though many more modest papers get easily into the news.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "a modest paper" as a false modesty, especially when the paper contains groundbreaking research or significant contributions.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact or importance of a paper described as "a modest paper". Inconsistencies between description and actual content can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest paper" functions primarily as a descriptive phrase. It qualifies the noun "paper", indicating the nature or extent of the document. As noted by Ludwig AI, it suggests a paper that isn't overly ambitious or grand in scope, implying simplicity or humility in its content.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest paper" is a descriptive phrase used to characterize a document that is simple, limited in scope, or lacks grand ambition. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While grammatically sound, its frequency is rare, appearing primarily in News & Media and Science contexts. To ensure clarity and avoid misrepresentation, it's crucial to use the phrase accurately, reflecting the paper's actual characteristics, and avoiding overstatement of its significance. Alternative phrases like "a simple paper" or "a short paper" can be used to emphasize different aspects of the paper's nature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a simple paper

Replaces "modest" with "simple", emphasizing ease of understanding and lack of complexity.

a humble paper

Substitutes "modest" with "humble", highlighting the author's lack of pretension or arrogance.

a small paper

Replaces "modest" with "small", focusing on the limited length or scope of the paper.

a concise paper

Emphasizes the brevity and efficiency of the paper's content.

a limited paper

Highlights the restricted scope or depth of the paper's research.

a basic paper

Suggests that the paper covers fundamental concepts without delving into advanced topics.

an unassuming paper

Replaces "modest" with "unassuming", implying that the paper doesn't draw excessive attention to itself.

an elementary paper

Highlights that the paper is introductory and designed for beginners.

a brief paper

Focuses on the paper's short length, highlighting its conciseness.

a short paper

Indicates the limited length of the paper.

FAQs

What does "a modest paper" typically refer to?

The phrase "a modest paper" usually describes a research "research paper" or academic work that is simple, limited in scope, or intentionally avoids grand claims or complex analysis.

When is it appropriate to describe a paper as "modest"?

It's appropriate to use "a modest paper" when accurately reflecting that the work is an introductory piece, a brief overview, or explores a specific aspect of a broader topic without aiming for comprehensive coverage. Avoid its use if the paper is actually extensive or groundbreaking.

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

You can use alternatives like "a simple paper", "a concise paper", or "a short paper" depending on which aspect you want to emphasize: simplicity, brevity, or limited scope.

Can "a modest paper" be used in a formal academic context?

Yes, "a modest paper" can be used in formal academic contexts, especially when introducing the paper or summarizing its scope. However, ensure that the word choice aligns with the overall tone and expectations of academic writing, avoiding overly casual language.