a modest point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small or unassuming argument or observation in a discussion or analysis. Example: "While some may argue for grand solutions, I believe that a modest point can often lead to more practical outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

GfK has a modest point-based incentive program through which participants accrue points for completing surveys and can later redeem them for cash, merchandise, or participation in sweepstakes.

Injury Epidemiology

Participants did not receive any specific incentive to complete the survey, although GfK has a modest point-based incentive program through which participants accrue points for completing surveys and can later redeem them for cash, merchandise, or participation in sweepstakes.

Injury Epidemiology

The keyword component was simply a box listing keywords associated with the article, but to get even to that modest point was a long journey.

The Guardian

Among our neighbors, a tree was becoming a modest starting point for Christmas decorations.

The New York Times - Style

Across the Hudson River, Steve's Dart Lounge in Congers, is a modest focal point of a growing dart obsession in Rockland County.

The New York Times

The 2-1 win in the 1980 game, in which Steve Moyers scored both goals for the United States, was a modest turning point.

The New York Times - Sports

On Thursday May 6th, it raised interest rates a modest quarter point to 4.25%.Two similar rate rises, in November and February, failed to temper the rise in house prices or slow the growth of debt.

The Economist

Then, Mr. Romney cut to the bottom line: "He calls it the Golden Lamb, but I think when you look at the prices you'll determine it's the Golden Fleece," he said, before adding, "Actually, it's a modest price point —I mean this is like $130 a night?

The New York Times

Rick Santorum enjoyed a modest one point uptick.

Huffington Post

He is averaging a modest 8.5 points and 5.5 assists — and 4 turnovers per game — as the starting point guard.

The New York Times - Sports

For example, who would have expected the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a team that allowed Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton 74 fantasy points in two games last season, to limit Newton to a modest 14 points and completely shut down the Panthers running game, Newton included?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a modest point", ensure the context reflects the intended subtlety or limited scope of the argument. It's effective when introducing an idea that doesn't require extensive elaboration or when acknowledging a potentially less significant aspect of a broader topic.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest point" to introduce a crucial or impactful argument. This phrase is best suited for ideas that are intentionally understated or of secondary importance. Misusing it can undermine the perceived value of your key points.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest point" functions as a noun phrase typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces an idea, argument, or consideration that is presented as being somewhat understated or not overly significant. This aligns with the usage observed in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest point" is a grammatically sound and infrequently used phrase that effectively introduces understated or minor arguments. According to Ludwig, its function is to present an idea with humility, suitable for neutral contexts in both news and scientific domains. When using "a modest point", ensure it aligns with your intent to downplay the significance of the idea, and avoid overstating its importance. Alternatives such as "a small detail" or "a minor consideration" can provide similar nuances depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight argument

Changes "point" to "argument" and "modest" to "slight" to emphasize the insignificance of the contention.

a minor consideration

Substitutes "point" with "consideration" and "modest" with "minor", highlighting the unimportance of the issue.

a humble suggestion

Replaces "point" with "suggestion" and "modest" with "humble", conveying a less assertive tone.

a small detail

Uses "detail" instead of "point" and "small" instead of "modest" to focus on a trivial element.

a gentle reminder

Changes "point" to "reminder" and "modest" to "gentle" to soften the tone and emphasize a subtle prompting.

a restrained opinion

Substitutes "point" with "opinion" and "modest" with "restrained", emphasizing a held-back viewpoint.

a limited perspective

Replaces "point" with "perspective" and "modest" with "limited", highlighting the constrained viewpoint.

a conservative estimate

Uses "estimate" instead of "point" and "conservative" instead of "modest" to suggest a cautious assessment.

a marginal note

Changes "point" to "note" and "modest" to "marginal", conveying the idea of an almost insignificant comment.

a basic idea

Replaces "point" with "idea" and "modest" with "basic", emphasizing a simple concept.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest point" to introduce a subtle argument or observation. For example, "While the grand scheme has flaws, I'd like to raise "a modest point" about its potential for incremental improvement."

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

Alternatives include "a small detail", "a minor consideration", or "a humble suggestion", depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "a modest point"?

Yes, it's inappropriate if you're introducing a major argument or critical piece of information. "A modest point" implies that the idea is somewhat understated or of secondary importance.

What's the difference between "a modest point" and "a strong argument"?

"A modest point" suggests a subtle or minor observation, whereas "a strong argument" indicates a forceful and persuasive idea. They are essentially opposites in terms of impact and emphasis.