just a modicum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just a modicum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a small or limited amount of something, often in a context where a little is sufficient or desired. Example: "All I need is just a modicum of patience to get through this challenging project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

No great talent is required, just a modicum of handiness and some art-critical acuity.

The New Yorker

Jacob seemed to need something from me, something more, even, than just a modicum of belief.

The New Yorker

(Travelocity doesn't have a section devoted to family travel, and Orbitz provides just a modicum of such information).

The New York Times - Travel

However, Blackwell's maiden over, the first of this innings, helps add just a modicum of pressure to their situation.

The Guardian - Sport

fades remarkably quickly with just a modicum of empathy, truth and a rational, medically sound alternative to treatment that is often harsh and without benefit.

The New York Times - Health

This time last year, we were living in a terraced house in Streatham, south London, with plenty of space and just a modicum of urban angst.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The creators of open-source software tend to just want a modicum of recognition and for companies to do the right thing.

The New York Times

Back in the real world, the likes of Clarkson are in no need of lifelines – just, perhaps, a modicum of empathy.

The Guardian - Opinion

On the other hand, you can also play it straight and give a comprehensive tour de force on just how awesome both people are who are getting married and throw in only a modicum of teasing just for good measure and to show you care.

HuffPost

It aimed not just to achieve a modicum of improvement, but to aggressively address widespread apathy among the electorate, low voter participation and a generally dismal understanding of governmental operations — and that effort would be centered around K-12 education.

Los Angeles Times

Virtually all had outdoor showers, usually with enclosures from calf to shoulder height, just enough for a modicum of privacy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "just a modicum" when you want to emphasize that only a small amount of something is needed or sufficient. It adds a touch of formality and precision.

Common error

Avoid using "just a modicum" in overly casual contexts. While grammatically correct, it can sound stilted if a simpler phrase like "a little" or "a bit" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just a modicum" functions as a quantifier, modifying a noun to indicate a small or limited quantity. This is supported by Ludwig, which identifies the phrase as grammatically correct and usable. The phrase typically precedes "of" and a noun.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "just a modicum" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a small or limited quantity. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, this phrase adds a touch of formality and precision. When aiming to indicate that a little goes a long way, "just a modicum" serves as a valuable and appropriate choice. Consider the context to prevent overuse and maintain a natural tone. Alternatives such as "a small amount", "a little bit" or "only a modicum" can provide greater versatility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only a modicum

Replaces "just" with "only", emphasizing the limited quantity.

a small amount

Uses simpler vocabulary to convey the same meaning.

a little bit

A more informal and common way to express a small quantity.

a touch

Implies a very slight amount, often used in cooking or art.

a hint

Similar to "a touch", suggesting a subtle presence.

a trace

Indicates a very minimal amount, almost negligible.

a fraction

Suggests a small part of a whole.

a degree

Implies a certain level or extent, usually small.

a shade

Similar to "a hint" or "a touch", used for subtle differences.

a speck

Refers to a tiny, almost invisible amount.

FAQs

How can I use "just a modicum" in a sentence?

You can use "just a modicum" to indicate a small or limited amount of something. For example, "All I need is "just a modicum" of patience to finish this task."

What can I say instead of "just a modicum"?

Alternatives include "a small amount", "a little bit", or "only a modicum" depending on the desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "just a modicum of" something?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "just a modicum" is typically followed by "of" and a noun to specify what you have a small amount of.

What's the difference between "just a modicum" and "a modicum"?

Adding "just" emphasizes the smallness of the amount. "A modicum" simply indicates a small amount, while ""just a modicum"" highlights how little is required or available.