feel modest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feel modest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a sense of humility or a lack of arrogance about one's achievements or qualities. Example: "Despite her numerous accolades, she continues to feel modest about her contributions to the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The building won't feel busy enough for people weaned on the non-stop stimulation of a lot of today's architecture, and it won't feel modest enough for people who insist that God meant the Museum of Modern Art to be small.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

THE genocide memorial in Kigali feels modest and understated, a bit like a leisure centre.

The Economist

In comparison "Ode" feels modest and unburdened, delivering the most comfortably centered work of Mr. Mehldau's recent career.

The New York Times - Arts

Their four-thousand-square-foot apartment has a twelve-foot-high trophy case, a flat-screen TV in every room, and space for a private suite for Ginny's parents, but in the story it felt modest enough to allow a sports-fan reader to feel right at home, even familiar.

The New Yorker

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

And, yes, a ban from the City would feel a modest punishment for most of the individuals since many have left the industry; only the business secretary can pursue a ban from all company directorships.

The Guardian - Business

If you want to feel more modest in the chest area, choose a gown with straps.

WikiHow

Kamin felt the modest palette is appropriate for a modest structure that attempts to complement the exuberant neighboring pavilion.

Wikipedia

The area feels tidy, modest and casual.

The New York Times - Travel

10/10 LH "Meal For One" proclaims the packaging, which feels surprisingly modest – it suggests we're dealing with a sad, even shameful bedsit repast, rather than an innovative piece of fusion cuisine.

The Guardian

Lowry felt that: "Modest redemption comes from the stammering Emma (Heroes Jayma Mays), who has a clear crush on Will, even though he's married to his high-school sweetheart.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feel modest" when describing a subjective sense of humility or lack of pride. It is appropriate when characterizing personal feelings rather than objective qualities.

Common error

Avoid using "feel modest" when you intend to express a lack of confidence or a sense of inadequacy. Modesty is about downplaying achievements, not capabilities. Instead of saying you "feel modest" about a task, consider saying you feel "unprepared" or "inadequate" if that's a more accurate reflection of your feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feel modest" functions as a verb phrase, where "feel" is a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective "modest", which describes the subject's state or condition. Ludwig AI confirms that this expression is grammatical and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "feel modest" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a subjective sense of humility or lack of pride. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, and examples from diverse sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and Wikipedia demonstrate its versatility. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it's crucial to use it accurately, ensuring it reflects a downplaying of achievements rather than a lack of confidence. Consider alternatives such as "feel humble" or "feel unassuming" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel humble

Replaces "modest" with a synonym, emphasizing a sense of low self-importance.

feel self-effacing

Implies a tendency to downplay one's own achievements.

feel unassuming

Emphasizes a lack of pretension or arrogance.

feel unpretentious

Focuses on the absence of affectation or showiness.

feel understated

Similar to modest, but focuses more on a subtle or restrained quality.

feel reserved

Highlights a restrained or self-effacing demeanor.

feel unostentatious

Emphasizes the avoidance of extravagance or display.

feel demure

Suggests shyness and reserve, particularly in women.

feel unobtrusive

Highlights a desire to avoid attention or prominence.

feel simple

Focuses on a lack of complexity or elaboration.

FAQs

What does it mean to "feel modest"?

To "feel modest" means to experience a sense of humility or a lack of pride in one's accomplishments or qualities. It implies a downplaying of one's own importance or achievements.

Is it better to "feel modest" or to "be modest"?

Whether it's better to "feel modest" or "be modest" depends on the context. "Being modest" generally refers to acting in a humble way, while "feeling modest" refers to an internal emotional state. Ideally, one's feelings and actions would align.

What can I say instead of "feel modest"?

You can use alternatives like "feel humble", "feel unassuming", or "feel self-effacing" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How do I ensure I "feel modest" without undermining my accomplishments?

Acknowledge your accomplishments but avoid excessive boasting. Focus on the contributions of others and recognize that success is often a collaborative effort. Internalizing these perspectives can help cultivate a genuine sense of humility.