modest options

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest options" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe choices or alternatives that are limited in scope or not extravagant. Example: "The committee presented a few modest options for the budget cuts that would minimize the impact on services."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Though research on the academic effects of choice has been limited, some studies have shown that giving students modest options can enhance educational results.

The New York Times - Books

Schools are trying more modest options such as inviting former pupils to donate £20 to a school Amazon wishlist featuring books pupils would like to see in the school library.

The Guardian

Another reader called for more variety and more modest options for older girls and women in stores, too, saying she had to go to the "more expensive stores" to find what she needed.

Independent

The president's inaugural team might consider more modest options appropriate for the nation's continuing hard times and Washington's budget wrangling — cutting back on the festivities to save some money.

The New York Times

What's the pricing for more modest options at these well-known cemeteries?

Vice

Even without stacks of Bitcoins to spill on hyper-expensive artworks, Bitdazzle provides more modest options both name and price.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

A more modest option is the panaché de briouates, an assortment of samosa-like pastries filled with vegetables and ground beef.

The New York Times - Arts

Brown, a right-handed hitter, gives the Mets another modest option for a platoon at one of their corner outfield positions.

The New York Times

A more modest option is the Pousada LaBarca, 37 Rua Inocêncio Boaventura, 55-755) 425-1070, with a handful of small but spotless rooms with town views; $14 with breakfast; three-day minimum during the festival, $138 with breakfast.

The New York Times - Travel

Admittedly, Dell'Acqua's 1950s-inspired bra-and-knickers combos in pale pink and white are almost too good to conceal, and their reassuringly generous cut make them a more modest option than the average celebrity's dress.

Independent

That leaves a more modest option: allowing emerging markets' quotas to increase by enough to give them more say but not by so much as to reduce America's share below 15%.The IMF's board has begun studying its options, and on January 28th recommended its membership agree on something by the end of June.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing solutions or choices, use "modest options" to indicate cost-effectiveness or simplicity without sacrificing functionality. It can convey resourcefulness and practicality.

Common error

Avoid using "modest options" excessively in formal reports or academic papers where a more precise or technical term might be more appropriate. Consider alternatives like "economical choices" or "practical alternatives" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest options" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "modest" modifies the noun "options". It describes choices or alternatives that are simple, cost-effective, or not extravagant. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Wiki

17%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Reference

10%

Social Media

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "modest options" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe choices that are simple, cost-effective, or not extravagant. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. It is commonly found in news, wiki, and science-related content, suggesting a neutral register. When using the phrase, it's important to consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended message of practicality and resourcefulness. While versatile, overuse in formal contexts should be avoided in favor of more precise terminology. Alternatives such as "limited choices" or "practical solutions" may be more suitable depending on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moderate choices

Implies the choices are within reasonable limits.

limited choices

Emphasizes the restricted number of available options.

simple alternatives

Highlights the simplicity and straightforwardness of the options.

sensible alternatives

Highlights that the alternatives are practical and realistic.

unpretentious selections

Focuses on the lack of extravagance or showiness in the selections.

economical possibilities

Highlights the cost-effectiveness or affordability of the possibilities.

restrained alternatives

Emphasizes the controlled or limited nature of the alternatives.

humble selections

Suggests that the selections are not grand or impressive.

basic alternatives

Focuses on the fundamental or essential nature of the alternatives.

practical solutions

Emphasizes the functionality and usefulness of the solutions.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest options" to describe choices that are simple, cost-effective, or not extravagant. For example, "The committee presented a few "modest options" for the budget cuts."

What are some alternatives to "modest options"?

You can use alternatives like "limited choices", "simple alternatives", or "practical solutions" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "modest options"?

"Modest options" is appropriate when describing choices that are reasonable, affordable, or not overly ambitious. It can be used in various contexts, from discussing budget plans to describing fashion choices.

Is there a difference between "modest options" and "basic options"?

While both phrases suggest simplicity, ""modest options"" often implies a sense of restraint or cost-effectiveness, whereas "basic options" simply refers to fundamental or essential choices without necessarily implying frugality.