modest preference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest preference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a slight or mild inclination towards something without being overly strong or assertive. Example: "While I have a modest preference for tea over coffee, I enjoy both beverages equally."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Model system 3 revealed a modest preference for the synclinal transition state, albeit in very low yields.

Tetrahedron

The modest preference for AB over CE did not reach statistical significance (binomial test, p =.143).

Experimental Psychology

E4 binds ERα with a modest preference over ERβ (Visser et al, 2008).

EMBO Molecular Medicine

Although lincRNAs are not enriched in UR(B), these regions show a modest preference for long noncoding RNAs.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Furthermore, as pointed out by the reviewers, assays with consensus peptide substrates show an even more modest preference for proline.

eLife

The regions have a modest preference for long noncoding RNAs but are depleted for small nucleolar RNAs, microRNAs, and transfer RNAs.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Instead, we encourage selection procedures that offer modest preferences to economically disadvantaged students.

The Economist

He asked a lawyer for Abigail Fisher, a white woman who was denied admission to the university, whether the modest racial preferences used by the university crossed a constitutional line.

The New York Times

He asked a lawyer for Abigail Fisher, a white woman who was denied admission to the university and who filed the lawsuit before the justices, whether the modest racial preferences used by the university crossed a constitutional line.

The New York Times

When assayed on the individual ER subtypes, ERα and ERβ, these compounds show modest binding affinity preference for ERα.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry

In contrast, the DSZS AT is considerably more promiscuous with respect to the ACP substrate, with only a modest 5 7-fold preference for its cognate ACP partners compared with other ACP proteins.

Biochemistry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "modest preference", consider quantifying the preference if possible, to provide more context and clarity for the reader. For example, instead of saying "there is a modest preference for X", specify "there is a 10% preference for X".

Common error

Avoid using "modest preference" when the actual difference is significant or decisive. If the data clearly indicates a strong preference, opt for language that reflects the true magnitude of the inclination.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest preference" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "modest" qualifies the noun "preference". According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English to indicate a slight or mild inclination.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modest preference" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, according to Ludwig AI. It serves to express a slight inclination, commonly in scientific and news contexts. When employing this phrase, strive for clarity by quantifying the preference when feasible, and avoid overstating the inclination. Alternatives include "slight inclination" or "mild preference". While versatile, be mindful of the context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the degree of preference being conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight inclination

Replaces "preference" with a more general term for leaning towards something.

mild inclination

Similar to "slight inclination", emphasizing the gentle nature of the preference.

small bias

Suggests a subtle tendency that may influence decisions.

slight advantage

Focuses on a minor benefit that one option has over another.

marginal advantage

Emphasizes the minimal difference between choices.

weak spot

Highlights a particular interest or liking for something.

low priority

Indicates something is not considered essential or important.

small tendency

Describes a minor leaning or predisposition.

limited predilection

A more formal way of expressing a slight liking.

reasonable preference

Highlights it as a preference grounded in the context and with reasonable support.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest preference" to indicate a slight inclination towards something. For example, "The data shows a modest preference for the new design over the old one."

What's the difference between "slight preference" and "modest preference"?

The phrases "slight preference" and "modest preference" are very similar in meaning. "Modest" might suggest a more understated or humble inclination compared to "slight".

What can I say instead of "modest preference"?

You can use alternatives like "slight inclination", "mild preference", or "small bias" depending on the specific context.

Is "modest preference" formal or informal?

"Modest preference" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality makes it a versatile choice for various writing styles.