modest scope

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest scope" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a project, plan, or idea that is limited in size, extent, or ambition. Example: "The research project has a modest scope, focusing only on local environmental issues rather than global ones."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

There is some modest scope for upgrades, although caution is still required.

The Guardian - Business

But within its modest scope the film, directed by Pablo Fendrik, uncovers latent social tensions and psychological disturbances.

The New York Times

Surprisingly, considering its (so far) modest scope, this is an area where Duck Duck Go also shines.

MIT Technology Review

Although working within a modest scope, Manguso has created a form to encompass the way life passes: plodding, breathless, and unrelenting.

The New Yorker

In a more modest scope, BACD may be used in diagnosis of disease severity, monitoring treatment, and support for therapist evaluation.

Speech Communication

If 153 countries could not agree on a trade deal of fairly modest scope, what chance is there for dealing with the really big global challenges of climate change, nuclear proliferation and the global economic downturn?

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

The result is that any healthcare legislation in the near future is likely to be far more modest in scope and will require bipartisan support to reach the 60-vote supermajority needed to avoid a filibuster.

The Guardian

The QP study should be fairly modest in scope.

Stanford University

These are honorable achievements, but modest in scope.

The New Yorker

Not that it is any more modest in scope, however.

The New York Times

Though modest in scope, the Vale of Glamorgan festival invariably has its own distinct flavour.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing projects or initiatives, use "modest scope" to accurately represent limitations in scale or ambition, setting realistic expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "modest scope" when the actual impact or breadth of the subject is significant. Ensure the description aligns with the reality to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest scope" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the extent or range of something, indicating that it is limited or not extensive. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "modest scope" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for accurately depicting projects, plans, or ideas with limitations in size, extent, or ambition. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English. Its prevalence across news, science, and business domains underscores its versatility and relevance in setting realistic expectations. Alternatives such as "limited scale" or "small scale" can offer similar nuances. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the actual characteristics of the subject to maintain credibility and avoid overstating impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited scale

Focuses on the size and range being restricted.

narrow extent

Emphasizes that the reach or coverage is limited.

small scale

Highlights the size being relatively small.

restricted range

Indicates that the boundaries or limits are confined.

limited breadth

Focuses on the narrowness of the range of something.

contained size

Highlights that the size is kept within certain boundaries.

circumscribed ambit

Uses a more formal term for range, emphasizing limitation.

finite limits

Emphasizes that the constraints are defined and not extensive.

reduced proportions

Highlights a smaller size compared to what might be expected.

miniature format

Indicates that the format is small or condensed.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest scope" to describe projects, plans, or ideas that are limited in size or ambition. For example, "The research project has a "modest scope", focusing only on local environmental issues."

What are some alternatives to "modest scope"?

Alternatives include "limited scale", "narrow extent", or "small scale", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "modest scope" is suitable for formal writing, especially in business or academic contexts where accurate and realistic descriptions are important.

What's the difference between "modest scope" and "ambitious scope"?

"Modest scope" indicates limitations, while "ambitious scope" suggests a broad and far-reaching plan. The choice depends on the actual characteristics of the project or initiative.