has modest expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has modest expectations" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone who is realistic or not overly ambitious about the outcomes of a situation. Example: "Despite the challenges ahead, she has modest expectations for the project's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There is still no "straight-through-processing", a jargony term for a system that allows securities trades to be cleared and settled instantaneously.To cure these ills, the IMA has come up with a list of proposals, although it has modest expectations of their success.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Now I have modest expectations.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Raskin said he had modest expectations for Aetna.

The New York Times

Mr. Hardwick said he was aware of all this, and had modest expectations for his petition.

The New York Times

The result was a bonus for the Palestinians, who had modest expectations.

The New York Times

Furthermore, Lionsgate executives insist that they always had modest expectations for the film at the box office.

The New York Times

At the same time, she said they had modest expectations about making much money, if any, from the tour.

The New York Times

Young, ambitious accountants who toil away at a Big Four firm may have modest expectations of glory, but they'll be millionaires if they make partner.

The New York Times - Magazine

In a half-built private-run campus in Patna most students have modest expectations of their future salaries typically $500 a month.

The Economist

Nickelodeon had modest expectations for ticket sales, according to Paula Kaplan, West Coast general manager of the channel and executive vice president for talent.

The New York Times - Arts

As Shirley Robin Letwin wrote in her book "The Gentleman in Trollope," the Duke of St. Bungay had "modest expectations of his fellow men," but he was never cynical.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "has modest expectations", ensure the context clearly indicates why the expectations are modest. This adds depth and credibility to your statement.

Common error

Avoid vaguely attributing modest expectations without providing a clear, logical rationale. For example, don't just say someone "has modest expectations"; explain the challenges or limitations that justify this outlook.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has modest expectations" functions as a descriptor, attributing a characteristic to a person or entity. It indicates a realistic or tempered view of potential outcomes, suggesting an awareness of limitations or challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "has modest expectations" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a realistic or tempered outlook on potential outcomes. Ludwig AI validates its correctness. It's commonly found in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business contexts, indicating its versatility. While related to concepts like realism and pragmatism, it avoids the negativity associated with pessimism. When using the phrase, ensure you provide a clear context for why the expectations are modest to enhance the statement's credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has limited expectations

Emphasizes the limited scope of anticipated outcomes.

doesn't anticipate much

A more direct and less formal way of expressing low expectations.

is realistic about outcomes

Focuses on realism rather than setting specific expectations.

is tempering expectations

Indicates an active effort to reduce or control expectations.

is not overly optimistic

Highlights a lack of excessive optimism.

has tempered hopes

Implies a reduction in previously higher hopes.

maintains a balanced outlook

Suggests a rational and unemotional assessment of possibilities.

is pragmatic about results

Emphasizes a practical and results-oriented mindset.

is grounded in reality

Focuses on a practical understanding of the situation.

is not expecting miracles

Humorously suggests a lack of belief in extraordinary outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "has modest expectations" in a sentence?

You can use "has modest expectations" to describe someone who is realistic or not overly ambitious about the outcomes of a situation. For example: "Despite the challenges ahead, she "has modest expectations" for the project's success."

What are some alternatives to "has modest expectations"?

Alternatives include "is realistic about outcomes", "has limited expectations", or "is not overly optimistic", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "has modest expectations"?

It is appropriate when you want to convey that someone is not anticipating significant success or positive outcomes, often due to realistic assessment of circumstances or past experiences.

What's the difference between "has modest expectations" and "is pessimistic"?

"Has modest expectations" implies a realistic outlook, acknowledging potential limitations, while "is pessimistic" suggests a negative bias, anticipating failure or negative outcomes regardless of the situation.