modest face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest face" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's facial expression that conveys humility or a lack of arrogance. Example: "She greeted everyone with a modest face, showing her genuine appreciation for the recognition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Mr. Collinson puts an appealingly modest face on his wildly immodest project.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Kolb, missing for three weeks before a tip led the police to his body, was raised in Boston-area enclaves where privilege wears a more modest face.

The New York Times

There is still no question that Mr. Corzine is not in Vermont or Minnesota, and would do well to put the most modest face possible on his ambitious proposals -- with price tags that a recent New York Times analysis placed at $20 to $40 billion for health insurance, $70 billion for expanded Medicare coverage and $55 billion for education.

The New York Times

McNerney, a onetime brand manager at Procter & Gamble, puts a modest face on his accomplishments.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Yet, as the Yankees will discover during their three-game series against the Orioles that started Monday night, the stadium has undergone a modest face-lift that is partly a response to what newer ballparks have done since 1992.

The New York Times - Sports

Many delegates and analysts warned that failure to reach some sort of accord, even a modest, face-saving deal that pushes the tough questions off into the future, could doom the entire process.

The New York Times

Page B2 Sports NOW 20, ORIOLE PARK UNDERGOES A MAKEOVER The Orioles' ballpark in Baltimore, built in 1992, has undergone a modest face-lift, turning an unused area in center field into a roof deck and adding murals and bronze statues.

The New York Times

She has failed to perfect a suitably meek and modest winning face.

The Guardian - Opinion

Young people from families of modest means face a Catch-22: without a college education, they are condemned to a life of poor prospects; with a college education, they may be condemned to a lifetime of living at the brink.

The New York Times

Further evidence of the struggles that those from more modest backgrounds face comes from Dame Judi Dench, who has told the Observer that she receives countless begging letters from aspiring young actors asking her to help fund their training.

The Guardian

While these standards may seem modest at face value, given the unspeakably poor conditions that have persisted for far too long in puppy mills throughout Missouri, this legislation provides welcome relief to the thousands of dogs languishing in facilities throughout the state.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modest face" to describe someone intentionally downplaying their achievements or status. It implies a conscious effort to appear humble.

Common error

Avoid using "modest face" to simply describe a sad or unhappy expression. The phrase specifically suggests humility, not general emotional distress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest face" functions primarily as an adjective-noun combination. It describes a facial expression that conveys humility, lack of arrogance, or understatement. Ludwig examples showcase individuals intentionally displaying such expressions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "modest face" is used to describe a facial expression that conveys humility, understatement, or a lack of arrogance. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is usable and correct in written English. It appears in neutral contexts, particularly in news and media, and can be replaced with alternatives such as "humble demeanor" or "unassuming countenance" to convey a similar meaning. It's important to use the phrase accurately, focusing on humility rather than general sadness, to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

humble demeanor

Focuses on the overall behavior rather than just the facial expression.

unassuming countenance

Uses more formal vocabulary to describe a similar visual impression.

self-effacing manner

Shifts the emphasis to a way of acting that avoids seeking attention.

reserved expression

Highlights the restraint and lack of overt display in the facial features.

simple facade

Emphasizes the outward appearance as being plain and unadorned.

understated look

Describes a general style that is subtle and not ostentatious.

demure appearance

Implies a modest and reserved way of presenting oneself, especially for women.

low-key presentation

Focuses on minimizing the impact or attention drawn by one's presence.

restrained air

Suggests a controlled and composed attitude, avoiding any excessive display.

plain front

Conveys a straightforward and unembellished outward presentation.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest face" to describe someone who is intentionally downplaying their accomplishments or displaying humility. For example: "Despite winning the award, she accepted it with a "modest face"."

What's a good alternative to "modest face"?

Alternatives include "humble demeanor", "unassuming countenance", or "self-effacing manner", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "modest face" the same as "shy face"?

No, while both might involve a degree of reservation, "modest face" implies humility or a lack of arrogance, whereas "shy face" suggests timidity or discomfort in social situations.

Can "modest face" be used sarcastically?

Yes, like many expressions, "modest face" can be used sarcastically to imply that someone is actually being boastful despite their outward appearance of humility.