are somewhat modest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are somewhat modest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person or thing that displays a degree of modesty, often in terms of achievements or qualities. Example: "Despite her numerous accolades, she remains humble and are somewhat modest about her success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The expectations for the second generation of reality shows are somewhat modest.

The New York Times

Prices are somewhat modest, with many garments in the $150 to $350 range.

The New York Times

Even so, Nissan's goals are somewhat modest: they aim to increase their ratio of female managers from 7 to 10percentt by 2017.

Harvard Business Review

These are somewhat modest policy scenarios; CCL proposes a starting tax of $15 per ton rising at $10 per year, and the CLC proposes $40 per ton rising around 4% per year.

The Guardian

Prospects for growth in 2000 are somewhat modest.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Kerri Walsh was rising to her feet after an impromptu interview in a coffee shop in Rockefeller Center on Thursday, when a store employee, unable to resist, asked the 6-foot-3 Walsh, "Are you a model?" Walsh, 25, was being somewhat modest.

The New York Times - Sports

Differences in the amount of improvement between the three groups was somewhat modest.

Harvard University

Land speculation is rampant, but building so far has been somewhat modest and family-oriented.

The New York Times - Travel

The stations would be somewhat modest affairs, numerous but not grand in scale like Union Station.

The Washington Post

But people from the luxury-fashion world were not particularly surprised; by their standards, the price was somewhat modest.

The New Yorker

Larry Wachtel, a market analyst at Wachovia Securities, said it was a good sign that the declines were somewhat modest.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing expectations or goals, use "are somewhat modest" to temper enthusiasm and set realistic targets. This can manage stakeholder expectations and prevent disappointment.

Common error

Avoid using "are somewhat modest" when the subject is significantly underwhelming or deficient. This phrase implies a certain degree of acceptability, so ensure it aligns with the actual situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are somewhat modest" functions as a qualifier, modifying a noun or concept to indicate that its attributes, impact, or scale are moderate or understated. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. Examples show the expression in use across News & Media, Science and Formal & Business contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are somewhat modest" is used to describe something that is moderate, understated, or limited in scope. As Ludwig AI confirms, the grammar is correct and the expression appears across various contexts, including news, science and business. Although not overly frequent, its usage serves to temper expectations and provide realistic assessments. Alternative phrasing, such as "are relatively unassuming" or "are fairly restrained", can be used to adjust the tone to be more or less formal as needed. It is important to use this phrase accurately, ensuring the degree of modesty aligns with the subject being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are reasonably humble

Specifies humility as the main attribute, rather than a general understated quality.

are relatively unassuming

Emphasizes a lack of pretension or showiness compared to "are somewhat modest".

are rather subdued

Focuses on a lowered intensity or activity, suggesting a calming or restrained quality; higher emphasis on a quiet presentation compared to "are somewhat modest".

are fairly restrained

Highlights controlled or limited expression, differing from a general modesty.

are kind of understated

Emphasizes a deliberate minimization of importance or impact compared to "are somewhat modest".

are comparatively limited

Focuses on restrictions or boundaries, implying a smaller scope of impact relative to "are somewhat modest".

are moderately low-key

Highlights a relaxed or informal character, suggesting an intentional avoidance of attracting attention.

are a little bit muted

Focuses on being softened or toned down, suggesting subtlety compared to "are somewhat modest".

are somewhat conservative

Highlights adherence to traditional values or cautious approaches, suggesting a limited scope.

are not overly ambitious

Stresses a lack of excessive desire for achievement, focusing on contentment and realistic expectations, rather than a quality.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are somewhat modest" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "are relatively unassuming" or "are fairly restrained". These options maintain a similar meaning but convey a more professional or academic style.

Is it appropriate to use "are somewhat modest" in scientific writing?

Yes, "are somewhat modest" is suitable for scientific writing when describing results or findings that are not groundbreaking or highly significant. It conveys a moderate level of impact without overstating the conclusions.

What's the difference between "are somewhat modest" and "are insignificant"?

"Are somewhat modest" implies a degree of impact or value, even if it's limited. "Are insignificant" suggests a lack of any meaningful effect or importance. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the subject's true nature.

In what situations is it best to avoid using "are somewhat modest"?

Avoid using "are somewhat modest" when the situation requires strong, assertive language or when describing something that is clearly substantial or impressive. In such cases, more emphatic phrasing would be more appropriate.