modest contribution

USAGE SUMMARY

"modest contribution" is both correct and usable in written English.
You could use it in a sentence such as: "He made a modest contribution to the charity event".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In return, all that's expected is a modest contribution to petrol costs, or sometimes merely company.

The Guardian - Travel

Lippmann did not, as Clarke notes, disclose his own modest contribution.

The New Yorker

Where an employer makes even a modest contribution, pension scheme take-up increases enormously.

The Guardian

"I saw what it was like," Mr. Steinhardt recalled, "and made a modest contribution".

The New York Times

If McCain wins, think of this column as a modest contribution to cheering up distraught liberals.

The New York Times

This movie might itself make a modest contribution to rewriting the history of white South Africa.

The Guardian - Film

There was an overall modest contribution of Australian identification to adolescent Muslims' adaptation.

International Journal of Intercultural Relations

Were scepticism about the intervention behind this modest contribution, it might be understandable.

The Economist

In the past, we've worked with a neutrino telescope (IceCube Science cover and our modest contribution) and on economic indicators.

Stanford University

It was a more modest contribution from him, but it was a more successful performance than that of Rondo.

The Guardian - Sport

But one sector is jumping for joy at the possibility of even that modest contribution towards young people's travel.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modest contribution" when you want to downplay the size or significance of an input or effort, often to avoid appearing boastful or to set realistic expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "modest contribution" when the actual impact is substantial, as it can undermine the true value and be perceived as insincere or dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest contribution" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to something given or done that is limited in scope or amount. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "modest contribution" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to downplay the significance of an action or input, often expressing humility. It appears frequently in News & Media and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional register. While the phrase implies a limited impact, it's important not to misuse it to undermine the true value when the contribution is actually substantial. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its broad applicability and correct usage, making it a versatile addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Small donation

Focuses on the monetary aspect of the contribution, implying a small amount of money was given.

Limited impact

Highlights the relatively small effect or influence of the contribution.

Minor role

Emphasizes the subordinate or less significant part played by the contribution.

Marginal effect

Suggests the contribution had a barely noticeable or minimal influence.

Token gesture

Implies the contribution was symbolic and perhaps insincere, rather than substantial.

Slight assistance

Highlights the help provided was minimal and not very impactful.

Nominal input

Focuses on the input being small in name only, possibly less impactful than expected.

Small part to play

Indicates the role being performed is not of great importance or influence.

Limited involvement

Emphasizes the restricted participation or engagement.

Insignificant offering

Implies the contribution is so small that it is practically without significance.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest contribution" to describe a small or limited input to a project, cause, or discussion. For example, "He made a modest contribution to the charity event" or "This study offers a modest contribution to the field of neuroscience".

What are some alternatives to "modest contribution"?

Alternatives include "small donation", "limited impact", or "minor role", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "modest contribution" in formal writing?

Yes, "modest contribution" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to acknowledge input without exaggerating its importance. It conveys humility and realistic assessment.

What's the difference between "modest contribution" and "significant contribution"?

"Modest contribution" implies a small or limited input, while "significant contribution" suggests a substantial and impactful input. The choice depends on the actual scale and effect of the contribution being described.