modest amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or reasonable quantity of something, often in a context where the amount is considered sufficient or appropriate. Example: "The project requires a modest amount of funding to get started, which we believe is achievable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

With citizenship goes some modest amount of responsibility.

The New York Times

It would also pay Mr. Eich a modest amount.

The New York Times

Set a realistic goal to lose a modest amount.

The New York Times

He always seemed to have a modest amount of money.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One of the nice things about getting older is a modest amount of stored experience.

The New York Times

Healthy eating and a modest amount of exercise are the keys.

The New York Times

So far, officials have described their case with a modest amount of detail.

The New York Times

Investors have put $2.5 million into the company so far, a modest amount.

The New York Times - Tech

This seems a modest amount to invest in world health, as well as world peace.

The New York Times

More schooling tends to reduce weight, but by a relatively modest amount.

The New York Times

Help only those who can stay in their homes with a modest amount of aid.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modest amount" when you want to convey that the quantity is small but sufficient or appropriate for the situation. For instance, "A modest amount of effort can yield significant results".

Common error

While "modest amount" is versatile, avoid overusing it in highly formal or technical writing. Consider more precise alternatives such as "small quantity" or "limited extent" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest amount" functions primarily as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a limited but often sufficient quantity. This function is supported by Ludwig, as seen in examples like "a modest amount of money" or "a modest amount of detail".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

16%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modest amount" is a versatile phrase used to describe a quantity that is small but often adequate or appropriate. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently across various sources, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to consider the context and audience when choosing between "modest amount" and more precise alternatives like "small quantity" or "reasonable quantity". While it appears that using the phrase "modest amount" is a solid choice, avoid the temptation to overuse it in highly formal contexts where the word choice might be better suited for more sophisticated verbiage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small quantity

Emphasizes the limited size of the amount.

reasonable quantity

Highlights the appropriateness or acceptability of the amount.

limited quantity

Focuses on the restricted nature of the amount available.

small measure

Suggests a slight or moderate portion.

moderate quantity

Indicates an amount that is neither excessive nor deficient.

fair amount

Implies the quantity is just enough or satisfactory for a particular purpose.

slight quantity

Highlights the minimal amount.

small degree

Focuses on intensity rather than amount.

limited extent

Refers to the limited scope or range.

small scale

Emphasizes the small size relative to something bigger.

FAQs

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

The phrase "modest amount" can be used to describe a quantity that is small but sufficient. For example, "The recipe calls for only a "modest amount" of salt."

What are some alternatives to "modest amount"?

You can use alternatives such as "small quantity", "reasonable quantity", or "limited quantity" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "modest amount" or "small amount"?

Both phrases are correct, but "modest amount" often implies that the quantity is acceptable or sufficient for a specific purpose, while "small amount" simply emphasizes the limited size. The choice depends on the context.

Can "modest amount" be used for both countable and uncountable nouns?

Yes, "modest amount" can be used with both countable and uncountable nouns. For example, "a modest amount of books" (countable) or "a modest amount of time" (uncountable).