modest speed

USAGE SUMMARY

"modest speed" is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used to refer to a movement or action that is slow but steady. For example, "The parade participants marched at a modest speed down the boulevard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

And, near term, even modest speed is unlikely.

The New York Times

ONE recent Saturday, Brian Alcazar was hanging out at RCT Performance, a modest speed shop in College Point, Queens, that specializes in squeezing the most performance out of turbocharged and supercharged cars.

The New York Times

And with their simpler, easier-to-learn controls, lighter weight and more modest speed, scooters can more easily slip under the peer-pressure radar of concerned parents, spouses and friends.

The New York Times

Basically, it delivers modest speed increases and lots of desirable little goodies.

Forbes

Inman showed that iron-hulled, screw propelled steamers of modest speed could be profitable without subsidy.

Wikipedia

Disadvantages of the photoproteins for some applications include the nonlinear relation between [Ca2+] and light intensity, the modest speed with which they respond to sudden changes in [Ca2+], and the fact the Mg2+ antagonizes the effect of Ca2+.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"We cannot afford to send out a message that modest speeding is somehow acceptable".

The Guardian

In the early days of windsurfing, sailboards were capable of only modest speeds and were used close to shore.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But drivers who have to fork out for what might have been a modest speeding infringement can feel that they're paying heavily, while an infuriatingly large number of illegal drivers get away without paying any insurance or tax.

The Guardian - Money

But to date, when combined with catalysts, nanoparticles have managed to carry out their reactions at only modest speeds, too slow for full-scale industrial needs.

Science Magazine

Even at more modest speeds processing delays will have a significant impact: a delay of just 100 msec mean that the apparent position of a medium-paced moving ball – say 30 mph – will lag behind its real position by over a metre.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing processes or movements, use "modest speed" to convey a steady but not rapid tempo. This can be particularly effective in technical descriptions or narratives where precision is valued over excitement.

Common error

Avoid using "modest speed" when you actually intend to describe something as being very slow or almost stopped. "Modest" implies a reasonable or moderate level, not an extreme lack of speed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest speed" functions as a descriptive term, combining an adjective ("modest") with a noun ("speed") to qualify the degree or intensity of speed. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modest speed" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a moderate or restrained rate of movement or progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is well-regarded. While not overly common, it is frequently used in news and scientific contexts. Related phrases include "moderate velocity", "gentle speed", and "slow pace". When using this phrase, be mindful of its connotation and the specific context to ensure that it accurately reflects the intended meaning. Use it to signal a rate that is steady but not particularly rapid.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight speed

Emphasizes the small amount of speed present, closely mirroring the original meaning.

moderate velocity

Replaces "speed" with "velocity", emphasizing the rate of change of position with a slightly more scientific tone.

low velocity

Emphasizes that the rate of change of position is small.

slow pace

Uses "pace" instead of "speed", focusing on the rate of movement or progress.

gentle speed

Replaces "modest" with "gentle", highlighting the mild and unforceful nature of the speed.

unhurried pace

Similar to "slow pace" but stresses the lack of rush or urgency.

leisurely speed

Implies a relaxed and unhurried approach to speed, focusing on comfort and enjoyment.

limited pace

Highlights that the rate of movement or progress is restrained or restricted.

restrained speed

Focuses on the controlled nature of the speed, suggesting it is kept within certain bounds.

controlled pace

Highlights the regulated and managed quality of movement.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest speed" to describe a rate of movement that is neither fast nor slow. For example: "The boat traveled at a "modest speed" to conserve fuel."

What phrases are similar to "modest speed"?

Alternatives to "modest speed" include "moderate velocity", "gentle speed", or "slow pace", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "moderate speed" instead of "modest speed"?

Yes, "moderate speed" is a suitable alternative to "modest speed". Both phrases convey a similar meaning of not being too fast or too slow. The choice between them often depends on stylistic preference or context.

In what contexts is "modest speed" most appropriately used?

"Modest speed" is often used in contexts where precision and control are important, such as technical descriptions, scientific reports, or narratives where the pace is intentionally measured. It implies a deliberate and unhurried approach.