a modest quantity of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest quantity of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small or moderate amount of something, often in a formal or descriptive context. Example: "The recipe calls for a modest quantity of sugar to balance the flavors."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

By treating an elastically restrained edge as intermediate between an appropriate pair of classical boundary conditions and using the corresponding vibration mode shapes of beams with classical boundary conditions as assumed functions, a relatively small number of functions is required; consequently only a modest quantity of computation is necessary.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

If you use a modest quantity of broth, the fideo swells and becomes more or less solid.

Los Angeles Times

Immunoblotting with 229T mAb raised against GS-168AT2 showed there was a modest quantity of GS-168AT2 pulledownwithith CD81.

British Journal of Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"In my investment firm, when we like a security after careful analysis, we buy a modest quantity.

The New York Times - Arts

In contrast, the amount of cisplatin taken up by cancer cells will be very toxic for them given the modest quantity of protective enzymes, particularly catalase, they express.

BioMed Research International

These results indicate that in cells transfected with a low quantity of pBud-mem-sTEVp, there is little background activity, but there was only a modest amount of inducible sTEVp activity.

Plosone

A small quantity of copra is produced for export, the sale of stamps accounts for modest earnings, and fees are collected from foreign fishing fleets, but the country depends heavily on foreign aid.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Development of bespoke biomanufacturing processes remains a critical bottleneck for translational studies, in particular when modest quantities of a novel product are required for proof-of-concept Phase I/II clinical trials.

International Journal for Parasitology

Selling a large quantity of diluted cocaine powder, or a small quantity of pure cocaine?

The Guardian - Opinion

Could such a small quantity of quinine cause all this?

The New York Times - Magazine

Clearly there's some demand because modest quantities of Italia, an old seeded variety, are shipped from California and Italy, and a round, pinkish, Israeli-bred seedless muscat, Mystery, is imported from Chile in March and April.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a modest quantity of", ensure that the context clarifies what constitutes "modest" within that specific situation. Providing a frame of reference enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest quantity of" when the amount is actually significant or substantial. This can create a misleading or even ironic effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest quantity of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a limited or moderate amount. Ludwig confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest quantity of" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a limited or moderate amount. While not extremely common, as Ludwig indicates, it finds utility across various domains including science, news, and encyclopedic writing. The key is to ensure the context makes it clear what "modest" means in the given situation. Remember to choose alternatives such as "a small amount of" or "a limited quantity of" if a different nuance is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited amount of

Replaces "quantity" with "amount", emphasizing the degree or extent rather than the countable number.

a small measure of

Uses "measure" to suggest a specific portion or serving size, implying precision.

a touch of

Suggests a very slight or minimal addition, often used in culinary contexts.

a dash of

Implies an even smaller amount than "a touch of", typically used for liquids or seasonings.

a hint of

Conveys a subtle or almost imperceptible presence of something.

a trickle of

Suggests a slow, gradual flow or release of a small amount.

a scattering of

Implies a dispersed or sparse distribution of a small quantity.

a smattering of

Indicates a small and uneven distribution, often of knowledge or interest.

a soupçon of

Borrowed from French, suggesting a tiny or barely detectable amount, adding an air of sophistication.

a modicum of

Implies a small but sufficient amount, often of something desirable or necessary.

FAQs

How can I use "a modest quantity of" in a sentence?

Use "a modest quantity of" to describe a relatively small or moderate amount of something. For instance, "The recipe requires "a modest quantity of" salt for flavor."

What's the difference between "a modest quantity of" and "a small quantity of"?

"A modest quantity of" implies a reasonable or restrained amount, while "a small quantity of" simply refers to a limited amount without necessarily implying restraint.

Are there situations where "a large quantity of" is better than "a modest quantity of"?

Yes, if you are referring to an amount that is substantial or significant, "a large quantity of" is more appropriate. Conversely, use "a modest quantity of" when the amount is intentionally limited or not excessive.

What can I say instead of "a modest quantity of"?

You can use alternatives like "a small amount of", "a limited quantity of", or "a moderate amount of" depending on the nuance you want to convey.