a modest performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a performance that is not overly impressive or grand, but rather simple or average in nature. Example: "The actor delivered a modest performance that resonated with the audience, though it lacked the flair of his previous roles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

One-time gains, including the sale of unwanted assets, masked a modest performance.

The New York Times

Vieira made his debut midway through the first half of a modest performance against Sheffield Wednesday at Highbury under the caretaker control of Pat Rice.

The Guardian - Sport

And then the Englishman providing the voiceover says, "All in all, it was a modest performance from Brando, and definitely a nonspeaking part".

The New York Times

It also created some unrealistic expectations in schools that take the International Baccalaureate, for which a modest performance, 32 points, say, was worth more than AAA plus A at an additional AS.

The Guardian

Speaking to the New York Times ahead of the weigh-in, Romney said the three-round fight in Salt Lake City, in which he and Holyfield will wear full protective gear, would be "a modest performance in more ways than one".

The Guardian

She hypothesized: Wouldn't a modest performance ultimately be less effective?

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

On current evidence, the US economy will have grown at an annual rate of just under 2% in the third quarter of 2015 – a very modest performance for an economy that came out of recession more than six years ago.

The Guardian - Business

The AUC for SuRFR on this dataset was 0.702, while CADD achieved a more modest performance, with an AUC of 0.608 (Additional file 8).

Genome Medicine

In particular, studies reporting an excellent discriminant ability mostly excluded patients with preoperative CKD, whereas a more modest performance was reported in those also including patients with impaired renal function [ 3].

Critical Care

It was found that introducing a fourth junction with modest performance could raise the efficiency of multijunction solar cells to 31.5% efficiency at load, raise total power levels to 22 kW, raise the power densities to 100 W/kg and 9 kwith with no impact to the configuration or operation of satellite solar arrays.

Renewable Energy

Though the film was not widely seen at its August release, Mr. Williams won praise for his modest performance as a schoolteacher plagued by a beastly son.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing achievements or results, use "a modest performance" to temper expectations and avoid overstating the outcome. This conveys honesty and realistic assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest performance" when the situation demands a more assertive or confident description. In contexts where you need to highlight significant success or impact, a more positive phrase is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest performance" functions as a noun phrase, with "modest" acting as an adjective that qualifies the noun "performance". Ludwig's examples show this phrase being used to describe varying degrees of success or achievement in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a modest performance" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe an achievement or outcome that is adequate but not exceptional. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific publications. The phrase serves to provide a realistic and honest assessment, avoiding exaggeration. Related phrases include "a restrained performance" and "a limited performance", offering similar nuances. When using the phrase, ensure it aligns with the context and avoid overstating or understating the actual impact of the performance. This ensures clarity and credibility in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a restrained performance

This suggests a performance that is controlled and not overly expressive.

a mild performance

This implies the performance was gentle and not extreme in any way.

a slight performance

Highlights that the performance was subtle and not particularly noticeable.

a timid performance

Implies the performance lacked confidence and boldness.

a conservative performance

Suggests the performance was cautious and avoided risks.

a mediocre performance

Indicates an average or unremarkable performance.

a limited performance

The performance was restricted in scope or ability.

a minimal performance

This suggests a very basic or reduced performance.

a simple performance

Implies the performance was straightforward and unpretentious.

a marginal performance

Highlights that the performance was just barely acceptable or sufficient.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest performance" to describe something that is adequate but not exceptional, such as "The company reported "a modest performance" this quarter due to unexpected market fluctuations."

What are some alternatives to "a modest performance"?

Alternatives include "a satisfactory performance", "an adequate performance", or "an average performance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a modest performance"?

It's appropriate when you want to acknowledge that something has been achieved, but without exaggerating its impact or success. This is often useful in situations where honesty and transparency are valued.

What's the difference between "a modest performance" and "an impressive performance"?

"A modest performance" indicates that something was adequate but not outstanding, while "an impressive performance" suggests that something was exceptional and noteworthy. The choice depends on the actual quality of the performance you're describing.