a modest version of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest version of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a simpler or less extravagant form of something, often in comparison to a more elaborate original. Example: "The artist presented a modest version of the original sculpture, focusing on the essential features rather than intricate details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Mr. Bush has proposed a modest version of those rules that would limit new spending but not tax cuts.

The New York Times

The city offers a modest version of this plan involving city taxes for businesses opening in some neighborhoods outside Manhattan.

The New York Times

Micheaux's features emulated familiar Hollywood genres, and he used a modest version of the studio star system to lure audiences to his movies.

Britannica

There is no known detailed plan of the Second Temple, which was constructed as a modest version of the original building.

Britannica

The bill is in fact a modest version of the 1997 Kyoto accord, which President Bill Clinton embraced but Mr. Bush rejected.

The New York Times

For a moment at least I could feel like a modest version of Poggio Bracciolini, the book hunter who returned Lucretius to circulation in 1417".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Think of it as a more modest version of a planes, trains and automobiles race from New York to Washington.

The New York Times

The first site, for the food and packaged goods industry, will be a relatively modest version of an Internet marketplace, in that it will not support transactions.

The New York Times

Spain, which has a more modest version of the scheme, saw a decline of 43.1% and Britain, which has yet to adopt a scrappage scheme despite months of industry pressure, one of almost 30%.

The Guardian - Business

Under a 'cosmopolitan' approach to foreign policy for health – or a right to health approach, which represents a rather modest version of cosmopolitanism [ 14] – both AIDS treatment and emergency obstetric care would be recommended, because they save human lives, and wealthier countries ought to assist countries unable to provide these interventions.

BMC International Health and Human Rights

He was further disheartened in 2015 when the state Senate failed to advance a bill that would have made it a crime to leave unsecured guns around children, a more modest version of the storage measure he is advocating.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a modest version of" when you want to convey that something is less extreme, less elaborate, or smaller in scope compared to something else. This helps to set realistic expectations and accurately describe the extent of the similarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a modest version of" if the differences are so significant that the comparison becomes misleading. Ensure there's a genuine resemblance, even if it's on a smaller scale.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest version of" acts as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun. It indicates that something is a less extreme or simplified form of another, similar to examples provided by Ludwig. This expression is often used to qualify or temper expectations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest version of" is a useful phrase for indicating that something is a less elaborate or smaller-scale representation of something else. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts including news, encyclopedias and science. When writing with this phrase, be sure that the similarity is genuine and not misleading. Consider alternatives such as "a simplified form of" or "a smaller scale model of" depending on the context. Remember that while it is generally appropriate for formal writing, more precise language might be necessary in highly specialized fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A simplified form of

Focuses on the reduction of complexity rather than scale.

A smaller scale model of

Highlights the reduction in size or scope.

A diluted variation of

Implies a weaker or less intense version.

A lighter take on

Suggests a less serious or intense approach.

A rudimentary iteration of

Emphasizes the basic or initial stage of development.

A slimmed-down version of

Highlights the reduction in size or content.

A basic adaptation of

Focuses on the fundamental changes made to suit a different purpose.

An understated representation of

Suggests a subtle or subtle or restrained portrayal.

A petite edition of

Emphasizes the diminished dimensions of the item.

A pared-down rendition of

Highlights the essential elements that remain after simplification.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modest version of" to describe something that is a less elaborate or smaller-scale representation of something else. For example, "This project is "a modest version of" the city's larger development plan".

What's a good alternative to "a modest version of"?

Alternatives include "a simplified form of", "a smaller scale model of", or "a diluted variation of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "a modest version of" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a clear and professional way to indicate that something is a less ambitious or less complex version of something else. However, consider more formal alternatives like "a simplified iteration of" for academic contexts.

How does "a modest version of" differ from "a more modest version of"?

"A modest version of" simply indicates that something is a scaled-down or less elaborate form. "A more modest version of" implies a comparison between two versions, where one is even less elaborate or smaller than the other. The choice depends on whether you are establishing a direct comparison.