modest expression

USAGE SUMMARY

'modest expression' is an acceptable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe the way someone speaks or expresses themselves, when they are not being overly dramatic or boastful. For example, "She spoke with a modest expression and managed to impress the audience with her poise and knowledge."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

In a survey of cancer-associated receptors and ligands in primary PDA cells in culture, we noted that the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl was highly expressed, with modest expression of its endogenous ligand Gas6 (Fig. 5F, Table 1).

DMM Disease Models and Mechanisms

Small-scale experiments (e.g., 1/16 – 1 plate) provide a wealth of information including the tagging of many or most expressed genes, microsatellite markers, full-length sequencing of highly expressed genes, and modest expression level information.

BMC Genomics

In this study, three members of this family (miR-148a, miR-148b and miR-152, Figure  12H) showed modest expression levels, suggesting that miR-148 may be a stably expressed miRNA in exosomes of most mammals including pigs.

BMC Genomics

The movie appears to end with a modest expression of hope, but Wiseman has a sinister episode waiting for us.

The New Yorker

Cedeño reached first, where he held a modest expression until he looked at Mike Sweeney, Kansas City's first baseman -- and then Cedeño grinned.

The New York Times - Sports

I handed him some pages of good (trust me) material and as he finished reading and as I assumed a modest expression, awaiting my compliment, he removed his glasses, held my gaze for a disconcerting moment and uttered a statement that deserves immortality.

The New York Times

ALDEN HARRIS Boston Hearing the Players To the Sports Editor: Re "With Simple Protest, Players Join Push for N.C.A.A. Reform," Sept. 25: I am glad that football players from Georgia, Georgia Tech and Northwestern chose to make, with messages taped on their wrists, a modest expression of their interest in the future of their relationship with the N.C.A.A.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The military enforced secularism, forbidding even modest expressions of religious faith, and also suppressed basic human rights.

Huffington Post

However, with the use a self-report questionnaire, we should be aware of Japanese mothers' "modest" expressions regarding their feelings.

Archives of Women's Mental Health

The high sensitivity of the NSCLC cells to VT-1 despite a modest Gb3 expression implies that Gb3 expression, though necessary, does not mediate VT-1 cytotoxicity alone.

British Journal of Cancer

The hourlong show is a modest, gentle expression of cross-cultural appreciation, conveyed by a cast impossible to resist.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's communication style, use "modest expression" to convey a sense of humility and lack of boastfulness in their words or actions.

Common error

Avoid using "modest expression" when you intend to convey a lack of confidence or assertiveness. "Modest expression" implies humility, not necessarily a lack of strength or conviction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest expression" functions primarily as a descriptive element, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a characteristic of the subject. It is commonly used to describe a person's demeanor or communication style, suggesting humility and a lack of pretension, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modest expression" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe communication or behavior characterized by humility and a lack of ostentation. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts, particularly in science and news media. When employing the phrase, consider its implications of understated grace and ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of humility rather than weakness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simple expression

This alternative replaces the adjective "modest" with "simple", suggesting a lack of complexity or pretension in the expression.

restrained expression

This alternative emphasizes the controlled or suppressed nature of the expression.

humble statement

This option shifts from "expression" to "statement", implying a spoken or written declaration characterized by humility.

understated remark

This alternative emphasizes the subtle and low-key nature of the communication.

mild articulation

This phrase focuses on the gentle or subdued manner in which something is expressed.

reserved demeanor

This shifts the focus to the overall behavior, suggesting a calm and self-controlled attitude.

gentle communication

This focuses on the kindness and lack of forcefulness in the way something is conveyed.

unassuming presentation

This alternative highlights the lack of pretension or arrogance in the delivery.

moderate tone

This emphasizes the balanced and controlled nature of the vocal delivery.

subdued delivery

This alternative suggests a low-key and quiet manner of expression.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest expression" to describe someone who communicates in a humble and understated way. For example, "Despite her achievements, she always presented herself with a "modest expression"".

What does "modest expression" mean?

"Modest expression" refers to communicating or behaving in a way that avoids being boastful, arrogant, or overly assertive. It suggests humility and a lack of pretension.

What are some synonyms for "modest expression"?

Alternatives to "modest expression" include "simple expression", "restrained expression", or "humble statement". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "modest expression" or "humble expression"?

Both "modest expression" and "humble expression" are suitable, but "modest" often implies a more subtle or understated quality than "humble", which can suggest a deeper sense of deference or unworthiness. Choose the word that best fits the nuance you wish to convey.