modest voice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modest voice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a voice that is soft, humble, or unassuming in tone or volume. Example: "She spoke in a modest voice, conveying her thoughts without seeking attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Mr. Tomlin has a modest voice, full of yearning, but it's not his voice that's important.

The New York Times - Arts

Even when displaying his formidable technique and stylistic flexibility, his piano spoke in a modest voice.

The New York Times - Arts

The problem wasn't really Ms. Kelly's modest voice or her coyly breathy delivery.

The New York Times - Arts

In western Europe, organised Christianity often acts as a modest voice in the ranks of the egalitarian left.

The Economist

One of the nice things about the bungalows is they have a very quiet, rather modest voice.

The Guardian - Arts

But for this concert Mr. Lovett was the genial, modest voice of what, back in 1986, no one was yet calling a social network.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

The soprano Jeanne Zaepffel's modest, tender voice and trusting look made her a beguiling Pamina.

The New York Times - Arts

Her three-man band had the muscle — it made an elemental bash of the profanity-strewn "Mansion Song" and "Model Behavior" — and she pushed her modest, reedy voice out of its melodic safe zone toward yowls and wails, fighting her own limitations.

The New York Times - Arts

In 1964's "My Fair Lady," Hepburn's modest singing voice was notoriously swapped out and dubbed by Marni Nixon.

Huffington Post

If you are lucky enough to be standing in the The Windjammer II Gallery, inside the Fairmont Hamilton Princess hotel, marveling at his works, and he steps into the shop at the same moment, he'll be happy to talk about his work in his modest, rumbly voice.

Huffington Post

Planes In this animated Disney fantasy a modest plane (voiced by Dane Cook) wants to complete against much sleeker vehicles in a major race.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modest voice" to describe a speaker's demeanor when they are intentionally downplaying their abilities or achievements.

Common error

Avoid using "modest voice" when you simply mean a quiet or soft voice. "Modest" implies humility or a lack of pretension, so ensure this meaning aligns with the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modest voice" functions primarily as a descriptive element, typically acting as an adjective modifying the noun "voice". Ludwig AI confirms this usage. It describes a quality of the voice related to humility or lack of pretension.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modest voice" is a commonly used phrase to describe a manner of speaking characterized by humility and lack of pretension. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media. When employing this phrase, it's important to ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning of humility, differentiating it from simply describing a quiet or soft voice. Alternatives such as "unassuming voice" or "gentle voice" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unassuming voice

Emphasizes the lack of pretension or arrogance in the voice.

gentle voice

Highlights the softness and mildness of the voice.

small voice

Focuses on the low volume or quietness of the voice.

soft-spoken voice

Indicates a voice that is gentle and quiet in nature.

low voice

Highlights the pitch being at the lower end of the spectrum.

subdued voice

Suggests a voice that is restrained and quiet, possibly due to sadness or seriousness.

restrained voice

Implies a deliberate control over the voice, avoiding loudness or strong emotion.

humble voice

Conveys a voice that lacks arrogance or pride.

quiet tone

Shifts the focus to the manner of speaking rather than the physical characteristics of the voice.

meek voice

Suggests a voice that is timid and submissive.

FAQs

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

You can use "modest voice" to describe someone speaking in a humble or unassuming manner. For example: "She presented her groundbreaking research in a "modest voice", downplaying her significant contributions."

What are some alternatives to "modest voice"?

Alternatives include "unassuming voice", "gentle voice", or "humble voice". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe an object or place as having a "modest voice"?

While less common, it can be used metaphorically to describe something that doesn't demand attention. For example, "The bungalow has a very quiet, rather "modest voice"."

What does it imply when someone is described as having a "modest voice"?

It typically implies that the person is humble, unpretentious, and not seeking attention. It can also suggest a level of self-awareness and a desire to avoid boasting or arrogance.