a modest variation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest variation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or slight change or difference in something. Example: "The study showed a modest variation in the results when comparing the two groups."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The overall effect is a modest variation of soot volume fraction if radiation is included.

Combustion and Flame

While this restraint makes "The Way, Way Back" pleasantly watchable, it also makes it feel small and anecdotal, a modest variation on something you've seen before.

The New York Times

Even though the pressure was attempted to remain constant, there was a modest variation during 24 h.

International Journal of Concrete Structures and Materials

Our phantom studies, moreover, have shown that results are neither sensitive to a variation of ΓI between values of 2 and 3 SUV nor to a modest variation in noise level.

EJNMMI Research

FT onset was the only measure that exhibited a modest variation with shell removal.

Plosone

Depending on the task, on the environmental constraints and/or the level of activity of other GABAergic circuits, a modest variation can lead to dramatic behavioural changes.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

For a more modest variation, use a red swimsuit or snug red tank top, instead.

WikiHow

Among people with a single long-term condition, there was modest variation in experience between conditions.

BMJ Open

56, 58, 59 Plasma insulin levels also display a modest diurnal variation with a 10% excursion, a nadir between midnight and 6 am and a peak between noon and 6 pm.

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

Conversely, drift is strong in species with small population sizes and modest variation in population size may be an important determinant of variation in TE abundance.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

The Texas governor also promises an administration with "people who represent all America" -- his modest variation on the Clinton promise of one that "looks like America".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precision is key, quantify the "modest variation" with specific data or ranges to enhance clarity and provide context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest variation" when the difference is actually substantial or impactful. Ensure the adjective accurately reflects the scale of the change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest variation" functions as a noun phrase, where "modest" modifies the noun "variation". It describes the extent or degree of change, and the adjective tempers the noun, implying a limited scope. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest variation" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a small or slight change. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for use in written English, particularly in scientific and news contexts. While not exceedingly common, its usage is consistent across various domains. When using this phrase, ensure that "modest" accurately reflects the magnitude of the difference you are describing and quantify the extent of the variation when possible. Alternatives include "a slight difference" or "a small change".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight difference

Focuses on the minimal degree of dissimilarity.

a small change

Emphasizes the limited magnitude of the alteration.

a minor adjustment

Suggests a correction or fine-tuning.

a subtle modification

Highlights the understated nature of the transformation.

a marginal difference

Indicates a difference that is barely perceptible or significant.

a limited alteration

Stresses the restricted scope of the change.

a gentle shift

Conveys a smooth and gradual transition.

a fractional deviation

Implies a departure from a standard or norm by a tiny amount.

a negligible variance

Suggests that the difference is so small as to be unimportant.

a tempered fluctuation

Indicates a variation that is controlled or restrained.

FAQs

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

Use "a modest variation" to describe a small or slight change. For example, "The updated model features "a modest variation" in fuel efficiency."

What's a good alternative to "a modest variation"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a slight difference", "a small change", or "a minor adjustment".

Is it correct to say "a modest variation" or should I use another term?

The phrase "a modest variation" is grammatically correct and widely used. Its appropriateness depends on whether it accurately reflects the small degree of change you're describing.

What distinguishes "a modest variation" from "a significant variation"?

"A modest variation" implies a small, often subtle change, while "a significant variation" indicates a more substantial and noticeable difference.