modest suggestion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest suggestion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to offer a recommendation or idea in a polite and unassuming manner. Example: "I have a modest suggestion for improving our workflow: perhaps we could implement a weekly check-in meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Even a modest suggestion of voluntary retirement founders.

The Guardian - Opinion

And here's a modest suggestion for political reporters.

The New York Times

A modest suggestion for Keane: Go with the "or something".

The Guardian - Music

Yet Bagehot has a more modest suggestion for the Tory prime minister, David Cameron.

The Economist

He offered a rather modest suggestion: lower the proportion of interest payments that are deductible.

The New York Times

Here's a modest suggestion: keep students from successful elementary schools together.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Blustein has a few modest suggestions of his own.

The New York Times - Books

Some modest suggestions for anyone feeling nostalgic: When did everything become so ephemeral?

The Guardian - Opinion

The proposals vary from detailed plans by large international organizations to modest suggestions from small groups.

The New York Times

But modest suggestions of this sort may be easier for some to accept than grander World Bank prescriptions.

The Economist

Wachowski brothers: if you ever get a chance to reload your own movie, perhaps these modest suggestions might assist you.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When offering a "modest suggestion", frame it as a starting point for discussion, rather than a definitive solution. This encourages collaboration and avoids appearing assertive.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "modest suggestion" as a revolutionary idea or a guaranteed fix. Overblowing its potential can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest suggestion" primarily functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "modest" qualifies the noun "suggestion". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and suitable in written English. It often serves as an introduction to a recommendation, softening the tone and indicating a non-assertive approach.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "modest suggestion" is a useful and grammatically sound way to introduce a recommendation with humility and tact. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is well-regarded and suitable for various contexts, especially in news, academia, and formal communication. When using "modest suggestion", remember to frame your idea as a starting point and avoid overstating its impact. Alternatives include "humble proposal" and "simple recommendation". By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate your ideas in a respectful and collaborative manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

humble proposal

Emphasizes the speaker's humility in offering the suggestion.

simple recommendation

Highlights the straightforward nature of the advice.

small proposal

Focuses on the limited scope or impact of the suggestion.

unassuming idea

Stresses the lack of pretension in the proposed idea.

limited recommendation

Points out the bounded extent of the recommended action.

conservative advice

Suggests a cautious and traditional approach.

slight recommendation

Indicates a minor or gentle piece of advice.

small tip

Offers a minor and practical piece of advice.

tentative suggestion

Underlines the uncertainty or hesitation in making the suggestion.

preliminary idea

Indicates that the suggestion is an initial thought and might need further development.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest suggestion" to introduce a recommendation in a polite and unassuming way. For example, "I have a modest suggestion: perhaps we could start with a small-scale trial."

What can I say instead of "modest suggestion"?

You can use alternatives like "humble proposal", "simple recommendation", or "small proposal" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it always appropriate to offer a "modest suggestion"?

While generally polite, offering a "modest suggestion" might not be suitable in situations requiring decisive action or when expertise is expected. In such cases, a more confident recommendation may be preferred.

How does a "modest suggestion" differ from a regular suggestion?

A "modest suggestion" implies a degree of humility and a recognition that the suggestion may not be the only or best solution. It's less assertive than a regular suggestion.