it seems modest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it seems modest" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that appears to be humble or not overly ambitious in nature. Example: "Her proposal for the project seems modest, but it has the potential to make a significant impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Mr. Glass's Symphony No. 3 was written for a small string orchestra, and if it seems modest beside his expansive Fifth, Sixth and Eighth, its ear-catching effects (including his rapid-fire update of the 18th century's "Mannheim rocket" in the finale) and flirtations with Middle Eastern modes work their charms.

The New York Times - Arts

It seems modest, but it's all-important.

Independent

It seems modest rather than merely anodyne, crisply practical rather than merely boring.

The Guardian - Tech

"If you are comparing it to 10 years ago in health care, it seems modest," said Helen B. Darling, chief executive of the National Business Group on Health, which represents large employers.

The New York Times

Rather, the president and his men seem to be taking the high level of public support they now enjoy as a mandate for continuing with the foreign policy they had embarked upon anyway.Shifts in the subsoilIn short, if you look at the immediate impact on America's current agenda, it seems modest.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It was extravagant, but it seemed modest compared to what some of our neighbors were doing.

The New York Times

This "rapid posthumous invasion of [Cheever's] privacy", as John Updike deemed it, seemed modest in the face of the relentless, remorse-filled exposure of the Journals.

The Guardian - Books

From what I've heard, the startup wants to raise between $30 to $50 million in its Series B, at a $400 million valuation —  while we couldn't confirm whether the amount was pre or post, it strangely enough seems modest in light of the billion dollar rounds being thrown about willy nilly.

TechCrunch

If the proposal seems modest, it is: numerous online services already have minimum age requirements.

The Guardian - Opinion

A rise in ECB rates from 2% to 3.5% seems modest, yet it implies a rise in mortgage interest payments (assuming a rate one percentage point above the central bank rate) of 50%.

The Economist

Though the set -- canvases with 17th-century urban facades sketched on -- seems modest enough, it's clear where the play is headed from the moment the first characters appear.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it seems modest" when you want to convey that something appears humble or unassuming on the surface, but may possess hidden value or significance. This is particularly useful in contrasting initial impressions with deeper realities.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because something "it seems modest", it lacks importance or impact. The phrase often implies a deliberate understatement, not a genuine lack of worth. Always consider the context and potential hidden value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it seems modest" functions as an evaluative expression. It's used to offer an initial assessment of something, suggesting it appears humble or unassuming. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it seems modest" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something that initially appears humble or unassuming. Ludwig AI validates this. While not extremely frequent, it's common enough to be recognized and understood across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using the phrase, consider that its seeming simplicity might belie a more complex or significant reality. Related phrases include "it appears unassuming" and "it looks understated". Avoid dismissing something merely because "it seems modest", and always consider the broader context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it appears unassuming

Focuses on the lack of ostentation or pretension.

it looks understated

Emphasizes the subtle and restrained nature of something.

it gives a subdued impression

Highlights the mild and restrained effect it creates.

it presents a low-key image

Focuses on the absence of flamboyance or extravagance.

it strikes one as simple

Emphasizes the lack of complexity.

it has a restrained quality

Highlights the controlled and moderate nature of it.

it conveys a humble sense

Emphasizes a feeling of unpretentiousness or lack of arrogance.

it registers as plain

Focuses on the lack of adornment or embellishment.

it reads as unpretentious

Highlights the lack of affectation or artificiality.

it projects a basic appearance

Emphasizes a fundamental or uncomplicated outward form.

FAQs

How can I use "it seems modest" in a sentence?

Use "it seems modest" to describe something that appears simple or unassuming but might have greater value or impact than initially perceived. For example, "The initial investment "it seems modest", but the potential returns are substantial."

What are some alternatives to "it seems modest"?

Alternatives include "it appears unassuming", "it looks understated", or "it strikes one as simple", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "it seems modest"?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight a contrast between the apparent simplicity of something and its potential underlying significance or impact. It suggests that there's more to something than meets the eye.

Is "it seems modest" formal or informal?

"It seems modest" is generally suitable for neutral to slightly formal contexts. It's appropriate for professional writing, news articles, and general communication where a straightforward, descriptive tone is desired.