however modest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "however modest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting idea or to acknowledge a limitation while still recognizing some value or significance. Example: "The project was, however modest, a step forward in our research efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a start, however modest.

The New York Times - Sports

However, modest signs of change are appearing.

The Washington Post

These efforts have been, however, modest in marine ecosystems.

Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology

Accounting irregularities, however modest, are often the miner's canary.

The Economist

And, however modest that sounds, that is, in the end, the fact.

University of California, Berkeley

Americans are trying to eat better – the improvements in our report card, however modest, demonstrate that.

The Guardian - Opinion

But with every trend, however modest, you have to wonder, why now?

The New Yorker

It is, however, modest in its aspirations, partly in deference to the Constitution.

The New York Times

However modest my means were, it was seeming preferable, after all, to live within them.

The New Yorker

He has just emerged from Copenhagen having brokered an agreement, however modest, on climate change.

The New York Times

I was an American with connections, however modest they really were.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "however modest" to acknowledge a limitation or small scale while still highlighting the positive aspects or significance of something. For example, "The contribution was, however modest, crucial to the project's success."

Common error

Avoid using "however modest" in a way that undermines the value of an achievement or contribution. Ensure that the phrase serves to temper expectations realistically, not to diminish genuine progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however modest" functions as an adverbial modifier, adding a sense of concession or contrast to the statement it modifies. As Ludwig AI suggests, it acknowledges limitations while still recognizing value or significance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

20%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "however modest" is a commonly used phrase that functions as an adverbial modifier to acknowledge limitations while highlighting the value or significance of something. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and widely applicable. It is often used to temper expectations and provide a realistic perspective, particularly in contexts such as news and media, science, and academia. When using "however modest", it's important to avoid using it in a way that diminishes genuine progress, but rather to realistically frame expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however slight

Focuses on the minimal degree or extent of something.

however minimal

Stresses the extremely small nature of something.

albeit small

Emphasizes the small size or degree of something, presenting it as a conceded point.

though limited

Highlights the restrictions or constraints on something, acknowledging its boundaries.

even if slight

Acknowledges a minimal impact or change, while still recognizing its existence.

no matter how small

Emphasizes that even a very small size or degree is relevant.

even when limited

Acknowledges restrictions or constraints, but suggests that there is still some value or possibility.

though seemingly insignificant

Highlights the apparent lack of importance while suggesting it might still matter.

in spite of its limitations

Directly acknowledges the limitations and contrasts them with the value or importance.

despite being constrained

Acknowledges that something is restricted, but still exists or has an impact.

FAQs

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

You can use "however modest" to acknowledge that something may be small or limited, but still has value or impact. For example, "The improvement, "however modest", made a significant difference."

What are some alternatives to "however modest"?

Some alternatives to "however modest" include "albeit small", "though limited", or "even if slight". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "however modest" a formal or informal expression?

"However modest" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its usage depends more on the overall tone and style of your writing rather than the specific setting.

Can "however modest" be used to downplay an achievement?

While "however modest" acknowledges limitations, it should not be used to dismiss or undermine genuine achievements. Instead, it should be used to provide realistic context or temper expectations.