modest choices

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest choices" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe selections or decisions that are humble, simple, or not extravagant. Example: "In a world filled with excess, she preferred to make modest choices in her lifestyle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

These modest choices pointed to the unwillingness of the leaders of Europe's biggest countries to subordinate their leverage and public roles.

The New York Times

Much of the fun of "The Future of Us" comes from watching as modest choices Emma and Josh make in the present day affect their future selves as viewed through their Facebook profiles.

The New York Times - Books

It was one of the more modest choices on an à la carte menu which includes a $125 "shellfish tower", a $195 carving côte de boeuf for two, and a $68 ribeye steak.

The Guardian

Eventually, I tried on bikinis, and my mom admitted they were actually more "modest" on my body than any of the "modest" choices.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

For a registered Republican and a millionaire many times over, it was a quirky, modest choice.

The New Yorker

Asked in January 2006 who would play him in a film of his life, Mourinho went for the modest choice of the Hollywood actor George Clooney.

The Guardian - Sport

A more modest choice is the 1896 House Country Inn & Motels (Route 7, 413-458-1896; www.1896house.com), where a small room for two runs $69 and the fanciest suite costs $259.

The New York Times

But at the front, on what turned out to be a modest choice of throne, was Benedict, his brother Georg beside him: snow-haired men listening to Haydn with the rapt intensity of someone listening to God.

The New York Times - Arts

A more modest choice is the Vondelhof Guesthouse (2 Puccini Street; 264-61-248-320; www.vondelhof.com), a pleasant bed-and-breakfast with a small pool and a dozen rooms off a central leafy courtyard, close to central Windhoek.

The New York Times - Travel

A delivery job might seem an odd, or at least extremely modest, choice for breaking gender barriers, but in India such jobs are relatively well-paid for people without a college degree.

The New Yorker

The rightwinger's modest choice of venue last month to launch his campaign to become his party's 2017 presidential nominee contrasted strikingly with the glitzy, US-style stadium gigs that became a trademark of the man once known as President Bling Bling.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing lifestyle or design choices, use "modest choices" to convey a sense of simplicity and lack of pretension. For example: "She furnished her apartment with modest choices, favoring functionality over ostentation."

Common error

Avoid using "modest choices" when you actually mean "adequate choices". "Modest" implies humility or simplicity, while "adequate" implies sufficiency. A "modest choice" might be a small, simple car, while an "adequate choice" might be a car that's big enough to fit your family.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest choices" typically functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "modest" modifies the noun "choices". It describes the kind of choices being made, indicating they are simple, humble, or restrained. As seen in Ludwig's examples, this phrase is used in contexts ranging from personal lifestyles to business decisions, reflecting restraint or simplicity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "modest choices" is a grammatically sound and understandable expression used to describe selections characterized by simplicity, humility, or restraint. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is valid and applicable in varied settings. While not exceedingly common, its presence in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian affirms its reliability. When using this phrase, be mindful to distinguish "modest" from "adequate", ensuring that you are conveying the intended sense of simplicity rather than mere sufficiency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simple selections

Emphasizes the uncomplicated nature of the choices.

humble options

Highlights the lack of extravagance or pretension in the choices.

unassuming selections

Focuses on the lack of outward show or ambition in the selections.

restrained decisions

Indicates choices made with careful limitation or control.

conservative picks

Suggests selections that are cautious and risk-averse.

limited alternatives

Highlights the restricted range of available options.

basic selections

Implies choices that are fundamental and without frills.

moderate decisions

Focuses on choices that avoid extremes.

understated options

Emphasizes the subtle and subtle nature of the choices.

minimalist picks

Implies a choice focused on simplicity and essential elements.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest choices" to describe decisions that are humble, simple, or not extravagant. For instance, "Despite his wealth, he consistently made "modest choices" in his daily life."

What are some alternatives to "modest choices"?

Alternatives include "simple selections", "humble options", or "unassuming selections", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "modest choices" or "humble choices"?

Both "modest choices" and "humble choices" are acceptable, but "modest choices" focuses more on simplicity and restraint, while "humble choices" emphasizes a lack of arrogance. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Can "modest choices" be used in a business context?

Yes, "modest choices" can be used in a business context to describe conservative or cost-effective decisions. For example, "The company's "modest choices" in office decor reflected its commitment to fiscal responsibility."