modest position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a viewpoint or stance that is humble or not overly assertive. Example: "In the debate, she maintained a modest position, acknowledging the strengths of both sides."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

We sought to respect the sensitivities by running the story and pictures in a modest position inside the paper".

The New York Times

When he assumed office in 2007, our country held a modest position in Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index.

The Guardian - Opinion

Instead of full disarmament, O'Hanlon suggests a more modest position in which nuclear weapons are dismantled, allowing for their redeployment if circumstances ultimately demand them.

Princeton University

Obama also seemed to stake out a more modest position on the current debate in Congress over whether to extend a payroll tax cut.

The Washington Post

His victory gives him a modest position in one of the lower rungs of China's layered government, far below the National People's Congress.

The New York Times

With the president's directions in hand, Mr. Obama's Justice Department came back on March 13 , 2009 with a more modest position than Mr. Bush had advanced.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

This has inevitably translated into modest positions, timid decisions and compromised policies.

Stanford University

It also includes many with more modest positions, like Thomas H. Marshall, director of public works in Delaware, Ohio, who has a doctorate in environmental ecology.

The New York Times - Science

Given his trashing of most of their competitors, he may be faulted for not specifying the exact amounts of what he describes as his "modest positions".

The New York Times

Many of the young men who began the Civil War in relatively modest positions as midshipmen, ensigns or lieutenants ended up commanding ships within just a few years.

The New York Times

And some of those poached from the private sector held fairly modest positions in their previous firms, suggesting that the age-old need to balance Kenya's tribes in the cabinet's make-up is still paramount.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modest position" to convey humility or a lack of assertiveness. This can be effective in scenarios where diplomacy or understatement is valued.

Common error

Avoid using "modest position" to imply that something is unimportant or irrelevant. While 'modest' suggests humility or moderation, ensure the overall tone remains respectful and does not diminish the value of what is being described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest position" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "modest" modifies "position". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable. Its primary function is to qualify or describe a position as being humble, restrained, or moderate.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

24%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "modest position" is a versatile expression used to describe a viewpoint, rank, or physical location with a sense of humility or moderation. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. Its usage suggests a deliberate choice to downplay assertiveness or highlight a restrained approach. When employing this phrase, be mindful of potential ambiguities and ensure the context clearly indicates the intended meaning. Alternatives such as ""humble stance"" or "conservative approach" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific emphasis desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

humble stance

Replaces 'position' with 'stance', emphasizing the attitude or posture taken.

restrained viewpoint

Substitutes 'modest' with 'restrained' and 'position' with 'viewpoint', highlighting a controlled perspective.

moderate standpoint

Uses 'moderate' instead of 'modest' and 'standpoint' for 'position', suggesting a balanced perspective.

conservative approach

Replaces the phrase with a focus on a cautious methodology.

limited influence

Shifts the focus to the degree of impact or authority held.

lowly status

Highlights a lower rank or level in a hierarchy.

unassuming role

Emphasizes a lack of pretension in the part played.

small part

Focuses on the size or significance of a contribution.

subtle argument

Highlights a nuanced and understated persuasive approach.

measured opinion

Implies a considered and carefully expressed viewpoint.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest position" to describe a humble viewpoint, a low rank, or a conservative approach. For example, "He took a "humble stance" in the negotiation, aiming for a compromise."

What are some alternatives to "modest position"?

Alternatives to "modest position" include ""humble stance"", "restrained viewpoint", and "conservative approach", depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "modest position" to describe a physical location?

While less common, "modest position" can describe a physical location, implying it is small or unpretentious. However, ensure the context makes this clear to avoid confusion. A more common usage is to describe a viewpoint or rank.

What's the difference between "modest position" and "simplistic position"?

"Modest position" implies humility or moderation, while "simplistic position" suggests an oversimplified or naive viewpoint. They differ in connotation and the underlying qualities they describe.