although modest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "although modest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting idea or to qualify a statement about something that is not grand or extravagant. Example: "The project received positive feedback, although modest in scope compared to previous initiatives."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Although modest in size, they have short, powerful jaws armed with razor-sharp teeth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The gains yesterday, although modest, were a respite from the spate of volatility the market has been suffering for weeks.

The New York Times

Although modest in scale, such a move would represent an important step toward satisfying a Bush administration demand.

The New York Times

The placebo effect, although modest, was about the same as the effect in studies testing nonpharmacological treatments for back pain like acupuncture, massage or chiropractic manipulations.

The New York Times - Health

Even the new convention center, although modest in scale and thoughtful in detail, has been relegated to an island across the Savannah River.

The New York Times - Travel

Big money-making was generally deplored as a semi-criminal racket, although modest affluence was craved and the consumer culture began to blossom.

The Guardian - Books

Although modest in size, they may be using as much electricity as a new energy-efficient refrigerator, a study last year by the Natural Resources Defense Council found.

The New York Times

Its second-class accommodations were comparable to first-class features on other ships, and its third-class offerings, although modest, were still noted for their relative comfort.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although modest in size, a combination of the size of GBT and the low noise of the TES detectors will make our receiver one of the most sensitive of its kind.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

Although modest increases in the activities of antioxidant enzymes were recorded following SeMet exposure, the ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione decreased in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting a gradual progression towards an oxidative intracellular environment.

Toxicology in Vitro

The collection of paired pre-AI and AI-resistant tissues assessed here for mutational status and expression levels of BC associated genes although modest in size is therefore an uncommon cohort.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "although modest" to acknowledge limitations or constraints while still highlighting positive aspects or potential significance. This approach adds nuance and credibility to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "although modest" as a mere disclaimer before exaggerating the actual impact. Ensure the statement following the phrase aligns with the initial acknowledgment of limited scope.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "although modest" functions as a concessive conjunction phrase. It introduces a clause that contrasts with or qualifies the main clause, acknowledging a limitation or smallness while still allowing for a positive or significant outcome. This is supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

31%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "although modest" serves as a valuable concessive phrase for acknowledging limitations while emphasizing contrasting aspects. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in a range of written English contexts. This phrase appears most frequently in scientific and news-related content, indicating its widespread applicability. When using "although modest", be sure to accurately reflect the true scope and avoid exaggerating the resulting impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

even if understated

Emphasizes the quality of being subtle or restrained, implying a less noticeable impact.

despite being understated

Similar to 'even if understated', it highlights the subtlety, but with an element of surprise or contrast.

while seemingly small

Highlights the apparent insignificance, contrasting it with a potentially greater effect.

while comparatively small

Highlights the relatively smaller size or scale when compared to something else.

though somewhat limited

Focuses on the restriction or constraint, suggesting a boundary to its extent or impact.

though relatively slight

Focuses on the degree of difference as being small in comparison to something else.

even if only somewhat

Emphasizes the partial or incomplete nature of the attribute being described.

albeit not significant

Introduces a contrasting point that something isn't notably important or impactful, despite its existence.

granted it's not extensive

Acknowledges the limited scope or breadth, openly admitting its non-comprehensive nature.

conceding it is not grand

Acknowledges that something lacks grandeur or magnificence, often in a self-effacing way.

FAQs

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

Use "although modest" to introduce a contrasting element or to qualify a statement, acknowledging limitations while still emphasizing potential value. For example, "Although modest in size, the garden provides a peaceful retreat."

What are some alternatives to "although modest"?

You can use alternatives like "even if understated", "while seemingly small", or "though somewhat limited" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "although modest" when the context already implies smallness?

Not necessarily. "Although modest" can be useful for explicitly acknowledging limitations before highlighting positive aspects or potential significance, even if the smallness is already somewhat implied. This adds a layer of nuance and avoids overstatement.

What's the difference between "although modest" and "although insignificant"?

"Although modest" suggests a limited scale or scope but doesn't necessarily negate value. "Although insignificant", on the other hand, implies a lack of importance or impact. The choice depends on whether you want to acknowledge limitations while still recognizing potential worth.