a modest step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or humble action taken towards a goal or improvement. Example: "Implementing a recycling program in the office is a modest step towards reducing our environmental impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It may seem a modest step.

The New York Times

The hog manure is a modest step, though.

The Washington Post

He says Hunt's proposals represent a modest step forward.

The Guardian

Proposition 2 is a modest step that deserves voter support and extension to other states.

The New York Times

The Senate bill, though weaker than computer users deserve, would be a modest step forward.

The New York Times

In July, China made a modest step toward adopting a more flexible currency policy.

The New York Times

The judges took a modest step on the road towards protecting privacy rights in this country.

The Guardian

The State Department took a modest step on Wednesday to cleaning up a major embarrassment.

The New York Times

Unofficial translations suggest that this law is only a modest step forwards.

The Economist

They cast the deal as only a modest step in the right direction.

The Economist

The chapter provides insights into nonlinear population dynamics and a modest step toward the hardening of ecological science.

Chaos in Ecology Experimental Nonlinear Dynamics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a modest step", clearly define the context and larger goal to which the step contributes, providing a sense of direction and purpose.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the significance of "a modest step". Ensure that your description accurately reflects its limited scope and potential impact to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest step" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It describes an action or decision that represents limited progress or advancement towards a larger goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a modest step" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a small or incremental advancement. Ludwig AI confirms its valid usage. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase serves to acknowledge progress while often tempering expectations. When using "a modest step", ensure you clearly define the larger context to which it contributes, avoiding any overstatement of its impact. Alternatives such as "a small advance" or "a slight improvement" can be used for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small advance

Focuses on the size of the progress, emphasizing its limited scale.

a slight improvement

Highlights the betterment achieved, though not necessarily substantial.

an incremental change

Stresses the gradual and step-by-step nature of the alteration.

a limited progression

Emphasizes the constrained extent of the forward movement.

a measured adjustment

Suggests a careful and deliberate modification, possibly of a small magnitude.

a tentative move

Indicates an initial and cautious action taken towards a goal.

a marginal gain

Highlights the slight benefit or advantage obtained.

a baby step

An informal way to describe the size of the progress, often towards something challenging

a grain of progress

Focus on the minuscule amount of development achieved.

a symbolic gesture

Implies that the action is more about signaling intent than achieving significant practical results.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest step" to describe a small action or change that contributes to a larger goal. For instance, "Implementing flexible working hours is "a modest step" toward improving employee work-life balance."

What are some alternatives to "a modest step"?

Alternatives include "a small advance", "a slight improvement", or "an incremental change", depending on the context and desired emphasis.

Is it better to describe something as "a modest step" or "a significant leap"?

The choice depends on the magnitude of the change. "A modest step" is suitable for small, incremental progress, while "a significant leap" is appropriate for substantial, transformative advancements.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a modest step"?

Use ""a modest step"" when you want to acknowledge progress but also emphasize that there is still much work to be done. It's useful in contexts where expectations need to be managed.