modest objects

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest objects" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe items or entities that are simple, unassuming, or not extravagant in nature. Example: "The artist chose to display a collection of modest objects that reflected the beauty of everyday life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

In the synagogue are mostly modest objects, like a dented lamp and architectural fragments, carefully explained.

The New York Times - Arts

Viewers eager for a bit of Byzantine glitter will find it here, though some of the more modest objects are just as richly cross-cultural.

The New York Times - Arts

These pictures provoke happiness if for no other reason than that they are content to be what they are, which is enough -- this being the same message they convey about the modest objects and people they depict.

The New York Times - Arts

The Blue Koran, its gold Kufic script simultaneously compacted and stretched horizontally performing a tightly sprung, lyrical dance across a sea of inky blue, is such a masterpiece.There are many more modest objects in the exhibition.

The Economist

Co-curator Glyn Davies said some modest objects on display were as rare as any of the embroideries – the tools used to make them, excavated on a site in London, including scissors, a needle case, a thimble, and an iron needle so fine the eye is almost invisible.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The two of us sat there for quite a while, reveling in the modest object of our affection.

The New York Times - Travel

For his still lifes he chose humble objects (The Buffet, 1728), and for his genre paintings modest events (Woman Sealing a Letter, 1733).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The number of fricatives emerged as a modest predictor of small object responses (b = 0.04, t 95) = 1.73, p = 0.09), and the number of plosives was negatively associated, albeit weakly, with small object responses (b = –0.032, t 95) = 1.56, p = 0.12).

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

Iyer is a genius and a more talented pianist than most will ever be, but he's also modest and objects to that label.

Huffington Post

Because the writer of such classics as "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility" died at the early age of 41 and lived in a modest fashion, objects associated with her are rare.

Los Angeles Times

These topsy-turvy conditions are the background to "Turning Point: Oribe and the Arts of 16th-Century Japan" at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a carefully shaped and focused show of modest-sized objects and cumulative weight.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing museum exhibits or historical collections, use "modest objects" to convey a sense of accessibility and understated value, contrasting with more extravagant or monumental pieces.

Common error

Avoid using "modest objects" solely to indicate size. Ensure the phrase reflects simplicity or lack of ostentation in addition to, or instead of, physical dimensions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest objects" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "modest" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "objects". Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing simple, unassuming items.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "modest objects" correctly describes simple, unassuming items, as validated by Ludwig AI. While grammatically sound and found in reliable sources like The New York Times and The Economist, it's relatively rare. It’s most commonly used in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, focus on conveying simplicity or lack of ostentation, and be mindful not to overemphasize size alone. Alternatives include "simple items" or "humble artifacts".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simple items

Replaces "objects" with a more general term, emphasizing the unassuming nature.

humble artifacts

Substitutes "modest" with "humble" and "objects" with a more specific term for historical or cultural items.

unpretentious goods

Uses synonyms for both "modest" and "objects", highlighting a lack of ostentation.

plain things

Emphasizes simplicity and lack of ornamentation.

understated possessions

Focuses on the subtle and not showy nature of the items owned.

small-scale items

Highlights the size aspect of the objects.

inexpensive wares

Concentrates on the cost or value aspect.

unassuming articles

Replaces "objects" with a more formal word, while retaining the sense of simplicity.

basic commodities

Focuses on the essential or fundamental nature of the objects.

unostentatious things

Highlights the lack of display or showiness.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest objects" to describe items that are simple, unassuming, or not extravagant. For example, "The exhibit featured both grand artifacts and "modest objects" from daily life."

What are some synonyms for "modest objects"?

Alternatives include "simple items", "humble artifacts", or "unpretentious goods". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "modest objects"?

Yes, "modest objects" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in English to describe items that are simple or unadorned.

What is the difference between "modest objects" and "small objects"?

"Modest objects" emphasizes simplicity or lack of extravagance, while "small objects" refers primarily to physical size. They are not always interchangeable.