a modest work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modest work" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a piece of work that is humble in scope or significance, often implying that it is not overly ambitious or grandiose. Example: "Despite its simplicity, a modest work can often convey profound truths that resonate with many."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Though a modest work, "Goldkind" represents a meaningful partnership between creative artists from different spheres of contemporary music.

The New York Times - Arts

It was taking an expressive sledgehammer to a modest work that other pianists take convincingly at face value.

The Guardian - Music

The chance for a modest work of art (and an incidental extra bit of profit) has been squandered and lost for ever.

The Guardian - Books

All of these women project a modest work ethic, a true commitment to the people they govern, and a willingness to fight for what they believe.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Mr Garcia, by contrast, has a home in a modest, working class section of Chicago.

Independent

For even a modest working majority, they must double their number of seats.

The Economist

The two big parties work from very different caricatures of the typical pensioner – for the Tories it is a canny old widow juggling with national savings certificates and private annuities, whereas the first Labour thought is of a salt-of-the-earth Darby and Joan couple, whose reward for a lifetime of toil is a modest works pension.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was, said Emily Maitlis, the "Basildon moment", recalling that key result in 1992 which helped put John Major back into Downing Street with a modest working majority in the teeth of poll ratings which had consistently pointed the other way.

BBC

While he's being lauded for past laurels, he's also garnering kudos for his latest film, Everybody's Fine, a comparatively modest work that has recently been released after making a festival circuit tour -- most recently it had a special feature screening at the 2009 Denver Film Festival.

Huffington Post

It's a more modest work, suiting the director's endearingly diffident personality; an interview recorded this year is included, along with Burnett's two previous shorts.

The Guardian - Film

Here Mr. Muti conducts Schubert's Sixth Symphony, a delightful, modest work in C and the reason the Ninth is called "the great C major," in contradistinction.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a modest work", consider the context. It's often used to express humility or to downplay expectations, so ensure it aligns with your intended tone.

Common error

While "a modest work" is acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make your tone appear overly self-effacing or insincere. Use stronger, more descriptive language when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modest work" typically functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the nature or quality of the "work", indicating it is not ambitious or grandiose. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Arts

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modest work" is a phrase used to describe a creation or endeavor that is simple, unpretentious, and limited in scope. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, and examples show it commonly appears in News & Media, Arts and Science. While grammatically sound, overusing it in formal contexts could be perceived as overly self-effacing. Related phrases include "a small-scale project" and "a humble creation". When employing this phrase, be mindful of your overall tone and the message you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small-scale project

Focuses on the limited scope and size of the undertaking.

a humble creation

Emphasizes the simplicity and lack of pretension in the work.

an unpretentious piece

Highlights the absence of extravagance or showiness.

a simple endeavor

Underscores the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of the effort.

a limited undertaking

Indicates constraints on the project's scope or resources.

a low-key effort

Suggests a deliberate avoidance of publicity or fanfare.

a minor achievement

Acknowledges the accomplishment but downplays its significance.

a quiet accomplishment

Focuses on lack of public attention or external recognition.

a restrained creation

Emphasizes the controlled and understated nature of the work.

a manageable task

Highlights that the workload is not too overwhelming or stressful.

FAQs

What does "a modest work" mean?

The phrase "a modest work" refers to a creation or endeavor that is simple, unpretentious, and limited in scope or ambition. It suggests humility and a lack of grandiosity.

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

You might say, "Despite its simplicity, this is "a modest work" that effectively addresses a complex issue" or "The artist described the painting as "a modest work", focusing on everyday scenes."

What are some synonyms for "a modest work"?

Alternatives include "a small-scale project", "a humble creation", or "an unpretentious piece", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

It's appropriate when you want to describe something without exaggerating its importance or complexity, often to convey humility or to set reasonable expectations.