modest result

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest result" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an outcome that is not particularly impressive or significant, often in a context where higher expectations were set. Example: "After months of research, the team achieved a modest result that did not meet their initial goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The headline on the FT leader was not promising: "Modest result".

The Guardian

According to Nielsen's estimates, the reality show attracted a more modest result in total viewers (10.3 million).

The New York Times - Arts

Rather than simply redefining "theory" as the modest result of NRE, WRE requires a robust, critical role for many kinds of traditional moral, political, and social theories in constraining the results of NRE, such as those reached at the level of fields like bioethics.

SEP

A modest result for the common Seoul native, but a miracle for a refugee in his situation.

Vice

This modest result for AD is in line with similar studies on guideline implementation [ 17].

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Most studies showed a wide variability in inter-individual response to all kinds of treatments, 18 a usually modest result in weight loss and maintenance, 19 and the involvement of many environmental, genetic, and behavioral factors.

Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

HIGH hopes, fine words and modest results.

The Economist

These may sound like modest results, but they are striking.

The New York Times

Acceler8 produced a rush of activity but modest results.

The New Yorker

In some places that approach is reaping modest results.

The New York Times

Weight lifting yields only modest results for the posterior.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To strengthen your use of "modest result", consider adding quantifiable data. Instead of just stating that a project had a modest result, quantify that result using numbers (for example 'a modest 5% increase').

Common error

Avoid using "modest result" to describe an outcome that is actually insignificant or a complete failure. Ensure there is at least some positive outcome to justify the term "result", even if it is a "modest" one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest result" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'modest' modifies the noun 'result'. It describes the degree or extent of the outcome, indicating it is not particularly large or impressive. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modest result" is a grammatically sound and objectively-toned phrase employed to describe an outcome that is limited or falls short of expectations. According to Ludwig AI it is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific domains, it is used to provide a measured assessment. When employing "modest result", ensure the context establishes a clear benchmark for comparison and avoid overstating the significance of the outcome. Alternatives like "limited outcome" or "small achievement" can offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited outcome

Emphasizes the restricted or confined nature of the outcome.

small achievement

Focuses on the minor nature of the accomplishment.

humble outcome

Highlights the unassuming nature of the result.

marginal gain

Stresses the slight improvement or benefit achieved.

slight progress

Underlines the minimal advancement made.

limited success

Indicates that the endeavor did not fully achieve its intended goals.

minor accomplishment

Emphasizes the insignificance of the achievement.

underwhelming result

Highlights that the result was not as impressive or exciting as expected.

moderate outcome

Indicates a result that is neither exceptionally good nor bad.

restrained success

Highlights the tempered or controlled nature of the success.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest result" to describe situations where the outcome is less significant than expected. For example, "The new policy yielded a "modest result", with only a slight increase in efficiency."

What are some alternatives to "modest result"?

Alternatives include "limited outcome", "small achievement", or "humble outcome", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "modest result" in formal writing?

Yes, "modest result" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in business or academic contexts, where objective assessment is important.

What's the difference between "modest result" and "significant result"?

"Modest result" indicates a small or limited outcome, while "significant result" implies a large, important, or impactful outcome.