modest selection of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest selection of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a limited or small range of items or options available in a particular context. Example: "The store offers a modest selection of organic products for health-conscious consumers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Clean fish tanks hold a modest selection of sea creatures.

The New York Times

A modest selection of wines, mostly from Italy and California, is somewhat overpriced, with few bottles under $40.

The New York Times

A modest selection of moderately priced domestic and imported wines is well chosen to match this feisty food.

The New York Times

Modest selection of mostly vintage Spanish wines, $30 to $65. Wines by the glass, $8 and $9.

The New York Times

The countertop mini-bar had a modest selection of artisanal liquors, like gin from Alameda's St . George Spirits

The New York Times - Travel

There is also a modest selection of wines ($6 to $10 by the glass; bottles start at $18).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

There are poems here, too, from a further three collections, including a somewhat modest selection from Reid's moving series of poems about the death of his wife, A Scattering, which won the 2009 Costa Book of the Year award.

The Guardian - Books

The restaurant serves only bottled wines, a modest selection, but it offers a good range of beers.

The New York Times - Travel

Modest selections include the exclusive Potagère line of hand-thrown tableware (a small plate is $95; medium, $110) and a group of four vases ($340 for the set).

The New York Times

A modest but tasty selection of the lithographs is now on display at the Jane Voorhees Zimmerli Art Museum here.

The New York Times

This one, workers said, was comparatively modest, with its selection of artificial flowers and a midrange caterer known for biryani, a comfort food.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing options, be specific about the reason for the "modest selection of". Is it due to limited space, budget, or availability? Providing context enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "modest selection of" when the selection is, in fact, quite extensive. Ensure the adjective accurately reflects the quantity or variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest selection of" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, typically used to describe the limited nature of a collection or offering. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "modest selection of" is a grammatically sound and commonly used way to describe a limited assortment or quantity of items. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable. It is particularly prevalent in News & Media and Science contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure that the selection truly is modest to avoid misrepresentation. Alternatives such as ""limited assortment of"" or ""small array of"" can be used for variety, but should be chosen based on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited assortment of

Replaces "modest selection" with "limited assortment", emphasizing the restricted variety.

small array of

Uses "small array" instead of "modest selection", highlighting the limited number of items presented.

restricted range of

Substitutes "modest selection" with "restricted range", focusing on the constrained scope.

narrow choice of

Replaces "modest selection" with "narrow choice", emphasizing the limited options available.

limited quantity of

Focuses on the small amount rather than the variety.

reduced number of

Highlights that the number is smaller than expected or desired.

sparse collection of

Emphasizes the scant or thinly distributed nature of the collection.

basic selection of

Indicates that the selection includes only the fundamental or essential items.

slight offering of

Uses "slight offering" to convey a minimal or small presentation.

minimal compilation of

Replaces with "minimal compilation", suggesting the collection is as small as it can be.

FAQs

How can I use "modest selection of" in a sentence?

You can use "modest selection of" to describe a limited variety of items. For example, "The shop offered a modest selection of local wines".

What's a good alternative to "modest selection of"?

Alternatives include "limited assortment of", "small array of", or "restricted range of", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "modest selection of" in formal writing?

Yes, "modest selection of" is suitable for formal writing. However, consider the specific nuance you want to convey and whether a more precise term like "limited assortment" might be more effective.

What does "modest" really mean in the phrase "modest selection of"?

In this context, "modest" indicates that the selection is small, limited, or not extensive. It suggests that the variety or quantity is less than what might be expected or desired.