modest offer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest offer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a proposal or suggestion that is not overly ambitious or extravagant, often implying a reasonable or humble request. Example: "After careful consideration, I would like to present a modest offer for the property that reflects its current market value."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Technology

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

He was tipped off about it by a friend in France and 'made a modest offer'.

The Guardian - Books

He learned yesterday that he is still the Mets' interim shortstop, after Barry Larkin artfully finagled the Mets' modest offer into a three-year extension by the Reds.

The New York Times - Sports

It is a modest offer, he says, but "we've had lots of families coming in, young boys, young girls, going crazy because they have found something, and mum and dad are helping them.

The Guardian - Tech

INSIDE PITCH The Mets inquired into GREG MADDUX's interest in playing for them this season, but they have decided against making even a modest offer because he is seeking too much money for their tastes.

The New York Times - Sports

The Mets cited the information as one of the reasons for their modest offer to Guerrero, the All-Star outfielder who wound up joining the Anaheim Angels over the weekend.

The New York Times - Sports

Because what Michael Foot always called the Forger's Gazette (for its role in the 1923 Zinoviev Letter affair) has deep pockets and every year it – or the Sunday Times – effortlessly outbids the Guardian's modest offer.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

But the retailer has gone far beyond such modest offers.

The New York Times - Tech

Other authorities have retreated from their own modest offers.

The Guardian

Instead, the inclusion of topics such as the bilateral trade deficit casts doubt on whether the United States is serious and invites the Chinese to present modest offers of simple purchases.

Forbes

Three of the other companies made new but more modest offers, and one, General Mining Union Corp., offered nothing beyond the increase of 14.1% to 19.6% that the companies implemented unilaterally at the beginning of July.

Los Angeles Times

Or he may simply have enough leverage to persuade the tenant to accept a modest buyout offer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modest offer" when you want to convey humility or a lack of extravagance in a proposal. This can be particularly useful in negotiations or situations where appearing overly assertive is undesirable.

Common error

Avoid using "modest offer" when the intention is to present a substantial or highly valuable proposal. The term can undermine the perceived worth if not used judiciously. Instead, opt for terms like "competitive offer" or "fair proposal" to highlight the value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest offer" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "modest" modifies the noun "offer". It describes the nature of the offer as being limited in scope, value, or ambition. Ludwig confirms this usage is valid.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Sports

21%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modest offer" is a grammatically correct and valid phrase used to describe a proposal that is limited in scope or value. Ludwig AI confirms this assessment, highlighting its diverse usage across contexts like news, sports, and technology. While suitable for professional and neutral communications, it is crucial to ensure the term aligns with the intended meaning, avoiding any confusion between modesty and insignificance. Alternatives such as "small proposal" or "humble proposition" can offer similar connotations, depending on the specific context and the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small proposal

Emphasizes the limited size or scope of the offer.

humble proposition

Highlights the unassuming or respectful nature of the offer.

conservative bid

Suggests a cautious or restrained approach in making the offer.

reasonable suggestion

Focuses on the fairness and practicality of the offer.

low-ball offer

Indicates an offer that is deliberately lower than the perceived value.

limited incentive

Highlights the restricted or minimal nature of the offered benefit.

token gesture

Suggests the offer is more symbolic than substantial.

minimal compensation

Focuses on the small amount of payment or reward offered.

unambitious proposal

Highlights the lack of grand aspirations or goals within the offer.

basic incentive

Emphasizes that the incentive given is fundamental or rudimentary in nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest offer" when presenting a proposal that is reasonable and not overly ambitious. For example, "They presented a "modest offer" for the property, reflecting its current condition".

What is the difference between a "modest offer" and a "low-ball offer"?

A ""modest offer"" is reasonable and proportionate, while a "low-ball offer" is deliberately and often unrealistically low, aiming to undervalue the item or service.

What can I say instead of "modest offer"?

Alternatives include "small proposal", "humble proposition", or "conservative bid" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the term "modest offer"?

The term "modest offer" is suitable in scenarios where humility, reasonableness, or a lack of extravagance are desired. It can be used in business negotiations, charitable donations, or presenting initial proposals where a more aggressive approach may be counterproductive.