a modest size

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest size" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not large or extravagant, but rather reasonable or moderate in dimensions. Example: "The apartment has a modest size, making it perfect for a single occupant or a couple."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Sure, some, like Cisco, have talked about starting a payout of a modest size.

The New York Times

But then a 640x480 pixel image (which is a modest size) would be around a megabyte of data.

University of California, Berkeley

A simple example would be a modest size bunk that is 40'wide by 100' long with 10' sidewalls.

Cornell University

Financing for speculative construction, they add, is still tight and will keep such projects to a modest size.

The New York Times

Although it's a modest size, it is a tough climb to the summit, but climbing skills are not necessary.

The Guardian - Travel

The Nordic Optical Telescope used in the present study is a modest size by today's standards and raises the possibility of using larger instruments to analyse smaller planets.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

But Britain is now but a modest-size ship on the global ocean.

The New York Times

The programs regularly attracted a modest-size though very interested audience.

The New York Times - Arts

My shot shows a modest-size penis that is half-erect.

The Guardian - Arts

Put together, they could all fit into a modest-size town.

The New York Times

For a modest-size real estate market like Seattle, those are staggering numbers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use "a modest size" to indicate the dimensions are adequate without being excessive. For example, "The garden was a modest size, perfect for a small family."

Common error

Avoid using "a modest size" in highly formal or technical writing where more precise measurements or specifications are required. Opt for specific numerical values or industry-standard terms instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest size" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the dimensions or extent of something, indicating that it is neither large nor excessively small, but rather of a reasonable or moderate scale. Ludwig examples support its use in describing physical objects, spaces, and even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest size" is a versatile adjective phrase used to describe something that is neither large nor excessively small. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. The phrase is found across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia, suggesting its broad applicability. While suitable for general writing, it's advisable to use more precise measurements in formal or technical documents. Alternatives include "a reasonable size" or "a moderate size". This makes "a modest size" a useful phrase for conveying general size information in a non-technical manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a moderate size

Substitutes "modest" with "moderate", suggesting a balanced dimension without extremes.

a reasonable size

Emphasizes the appropriateness of the size, implying it fits the need or purpose.

a smallish size

Replaces "modest" with "smallish", implying a slightly smaller dimension.

a compact size

Highlights the efficiency and space-saving aspect of the size.

a manageable size

Focuses on the ease of handling or dealing with something of that size.

a diminutive size

Suggests a notably small size, perhaps smaller than average.

a fair size

Implies a size that is adequate or satisfactory, though not particularly large.

a medium size

Indicates a size that is neither small nor large, but somewhere in between.

a smaller size

Simply indicates that the size is less than what is considered standard or large.

a limited size

Highlights that the size is restricted or not very extensive.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest size" to describe something that is reasonably or moderately sized. For example: "The apartment was "a modest size", suitable for one person."

What are some synonyms for "a modest size"?

Alternatives to "a modest size" include "a reasonable size", "a moderate size", or "a smallish size".

Is it appropriate to use "a modest size" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, in formal or technical contexts, it may be better to use precise measurements instead of "a modest size". However, in general writing, it is fine.

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

"A modest size" implies a reasonable or adequate size, whereas "a small size" simply indicates that something is not large. "A modest size" may also suggest appropriateness, which "a small size" does not.