a modest reminder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest reminder" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to gently remind someone of something without being too forceful or demanding. Example: "This is just a modest reminder that the deadline for submissions is approaching next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Still, when it works, the film serves as a modest reminder that the challenges of autism may sometimes be no more daunting or fearsome than those that face anyone in search of an independent life.

The New York Times

At a terrible moment, I hope it's a modest reminder that we really don't have to leave this world as it was when we were born.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The cultural change around food is a modest but important reminder that we can.

Huffington Post

This indicates a modest benefit of including the reminder settings, as in these cases users were directly accessing the application through clicking on a reminder notification.

BMC Public Health

It was a modest reward for Palace and a reminder Leicester still have more room for improvement, but this was definitely an encouraging step.

The Guardian - Sport

The same meta-analysis showed reminder strategies including phone calls (+/- letters) and postcard reminders also resulted in a modest increase in rescreening.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Although a modest response rate was evident after two reminders, this is in line with previous large scale surveys in which unsolicited responses are invited [ 32].

BMC Family Practice

Recent reviewing of prompting clinicians about preventive care measures have revealed a modest consequence, with cardiac care and smoking cessation reminders being most effective [ 5].

BMC Family Practice

It's also a reminder that the RAF is playing a modest role - US warplanes are carrying out dozens of sorties a day.

BBC

Inclusion of another survey with a reminder has been shown to have only a modest effect on response rates, of about 4 5%% [ 27, 50].

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Several strategies have been tried to improve screening participation, of which reminder letters have been shown to have a modest effect [ 3].

BMC Cancer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "a modest reminder" with positive framing to avoid sounding accusatory or condescending; instead, focus on shared goals or benefits.

Common error

While acceptable, "a modest reminder" can sound repetitive if overused. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "a gentle nudge" or "a subtle cue" to add variety and maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest reminder" functions as a noun phrase acting as an appositive or subject complement. It serves to introduce a piece of information, often one that has been previously discussed or should already be known, in a gentle and non-confrontational manner. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

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 reminder" is a grammatically correct and useful phrase for gently prompting someone's memory. Ludwig AI validates its appropriateness in written English. It's most commonly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts. While its frequency is relatively rare, it effectively serves its purpose of bringing a point to attention without being forceful. Consider related phrases like "a gentle nudge" to vary your writing and avoid overuse. When using "a modest reminder", aim for positive framing and be mindful of the context to ensure it aligns with the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight prompt

Similar to "modest reminder" but uses prompt, suggesting encouragement to remember or act.

a gentle nudge

Replaces "reminder" with a metaphor for subtle prompting, implying a slight push towards remembering.

a subtle cue

Emphasizes the indirect nature of the reminder, focusing on a hint or suggestion.

a quiet notice

Indicates a gentle and understated way of bringing something to attention.

a brief recollection

Shifts the focus to the act of remembering, rather than the prompting itself.

a small suggestion

Downplays the forcefulness of the reminder, presenting it as a simple suggestion.

a soft call to mind

Uses figurative language to create a gentle and evocative reminder.

a passing thought

Highlights the fleeting nature of the reminder, suggesting it's something to briefly consider.

a mild caution

Implies a warning element in the reminder, suggesting potential consequences if ignored.

a simple heads-up

Offers an informal alternative, suggesting a friendly warning or piece of information.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest reminder" to introduce a point that you want someone to remember. For example, "This email serves as "a modest reminder" that the deadline is approaching."

What are some alternatives to "a modest reminder"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a gentle nudge", "a subtle cue", or "a slight prompt", depending on the context.

Is "a modest reminder" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a modest reminder" is generally suitable, but consider the tone. In highly formal contexts, a more direct statement might be preferable, but "a modest reminder" is appropriate when aiming for politeness.

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

Use "a modest reminder" when you want to bring something to someone's attention in a non-confrontational way, especially when they are already aware of it but may need a gentle nudge.