modest sanction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest sanction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a punishment or penalty that is relatively mild or not severe in nature. Example: "The committee decided to impose a modest sanction on the student for their minor infraction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

After Marler had dodged punishment for applying a forearm to the head of the prone Rob Evans during the England v Wales game – it was not felt to be a red card offence so he escaped on a technicality – surely the Six Nations' disciplinary machinery would at least ensure the player copped a modest sanction for abusing Lee?

The Guardian - Sport

Such privacy means that the Council is denied even a modest "sanction" of publicity.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The United Nations Security Council has imposed modest sanctions on Iran.

The New York Times

Till now, the world has talked a lot and applied some modest sanctions to stop Iran's dash to enrich uranium.

The Economist

That gives the White House some breathing room to reach a preliminary deal freezing Iran's nuclear activities for six months, in return for modest sanctions relief.

The New York Times

The modest sanctions imposed by the US were not emulated by the European and Arab states with which Syria conducts most of its trade.

The Guardian - Opinion

More than a year after that first encounter, the chasm on core issues was still deep, despite an interim Joint Plan of Action, a confidence-building step that curtailed Iran's nuclear program in exchange for modest sanctions relief.

The New Yorker

Rouhani has used the momentum generated by the interim deal – in addition to the modest sanctions relief that accompanied it – to cut inflation from 45%to20%0% and stabilise the rial currency after it lost more than 80% of its value.

The Guardian - Opinion

These programmes require participants to abstain from alcohol and submit to frequent alcohol testing with swift, certain, and modest sanctions for violations, with the aim to reduce crime and keep alcohol-involved offenders in the community.

The Lancet Psychiatry

The interim deal, achieved in Geneva last month between Iran and major world powers, halts Iran's nuclear program in exchange for modest sanctions relief.

Huffington Post

At technical-level talks in Istanbul on Monday, the six powers gave Iran more details of proposals made in Almaty where they offered Tehran modest sanctions relief if it curbed its most sensitive nuclear activity.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional impact of the violation, and assess if a more expressive term could be more appropriate for the communication objective.

Common error

Avoid using "modest sanction" when describing severe violations or crimes. This phrase downplays the seriousness of the situation and may undermine the perceived justice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest sanction" typically functions as a noun phrase, where "modest" modifies the noun "sanction". It describes the nature or extent of the penalty being imposed, indicating its limited or mild character. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "modest sanction" is a grammatically correct term used to describe a mild or limited penalty. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. Its frequency is uncommon, often appearing in news reports, Wikipedia entries and scientific publications. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the context aligns with the intended meaning, avoiding its use in situations requiring a more severe response. Alternative phrases like "mild penalty" or "light punishment" can offer similar connotations while catering to specific communicative purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mild penalty

Emphasizes the gentleness or lack of severity in the punishment.

light punishment

Focuses on the lenient nature of the penalty imposed.

limited repercussion

Highlights the restricted or contained consequences of an action.

minor penalty

Indicates a small or insignificant punitive measure.

moderate consequence

Suggests a balanced and not excessive outcome.

slight reprimand

Implies a gentle and formal disapproval.

reduced penalty

Describes a penalty that has been lessened or decreased in severity.

small fine

Refers specifically to a monetary penalty of a low amount.

symbolic sanction

Highlights that the sanction is more for show than for real impact.

token punishment

Suggests that the punishment is minimal and not truly reflective of the offense.

FAQs

What does "modest sanction" mean?

A "modest sanction" refers to a penalty or punishment that is not severe or extreme. It implies a mild or limited consequence for an infraction or violation.

When is it appropriate to use the term "modest sanction"?

It is appropriate to use "modest sanction" when the offense is minor or unintentional, and the goal is to discourage the behavior without imposing harsh penalties. It's often used in situations where a warning or light penalty is sufficient.

What are some alternatives to "modest sanction"?

You can use alternatives like "mild penalty", "light punishment", or "minor penalty" depending on the specific context.

How does a "modest sanction" differ from a severe penalty?

A "modest sanction" is designed to be gentle and corrective, while a severe penalty is intended to be harsh and punitive. The choice depends on the severity of the offense and the goals of the disciplinary action.