modesty aside

USAGE SUMMARY

"modesty aside" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to indicate that one is going to be candid or direct in their statement, typically to draw attention to their own success or achievement. For example, "Modesty aside, I think my work speaks for itself."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Modesty aside, his son, Chip, sensed otherwise.

The New York Times

Modesty aside, it's a smart move.

The Guardian - Film

But this time he had put modesty aside.

The Economist

Reservations about my modesty aside, it was certainly a relaxing way to wind down.

Independent

Modesty aside, Ranford has been a total mystery to the Bruins.

The New York Times - Sports

I play video games regularly and, modesty aside, usually do quite well.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

With innate modesty, they stand aside and allow the relationships among Jack, Vince, Amy and Jack's best friend, Ray Bob Hoskinss, who has never been better), to claim our attention.

The New York Times

After laying out all the various new initiatives at the company last Tuesday night, including a global music site built on social media, Mr. Smith set aside modesty and profanity for a brief moment.

The New York Times

But aside from modesty or practicality concerns, there are very few clothing rules in my house.

The Washington Post

Casting aside false modesty (the only kind we colonels know), I admit that my military career has followed an unusual path.

The Washington Post

The personification of sainted modesty, she had laid aside -- but could not quite conceal -- a sensuous potential that was almost beyond belief.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modesty aside" to signal that you are about to make a statement that might seem boastful but is, in your opinion, accurate or justified.

Common error

Avoid using "modesty aside" too frequently, as it can make you sound arrogant or insincere. Use it sparingly for maximum impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modesty aside" functions as a disclaimer or introductory phrase, signaling that the speaker is about to make a statement that could be perceived as boastful or self-aggrandizing. Ludwig's examples illustrate its role in softening the impact of potentially arrogant assertions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modesty aside" is a phrase used to preface a statement that might sound boastful, aiming to soften its impact. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. While it signals candor, overusing it can undermine sincerity. Consider alternatives like "without false modesty" or "if I may say so myself" to vary your expression. Be aware that while Ludwig confirms the validity of the expression, in formal contexts more discrete or humble language may be preferrable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without false modesty

Emphasizes the genuineness of the forthcoming statement, implying a lack of pretense rather than explicitly setting aside modesty.

if I do say so

A shortened, slightly more self-deprecating version of "if I may say so myself."

if I may say so myself

Highlights the speaker's awareness that they might be boasting, but proceeds anyway.

tooting my own horn

A more informal and humorous way of admitting one is about to praise oneself.

not to brag

Introduces a statement that will inevitably involve some level of boasting.

with all due respect

Can preface a self-assured declaration, though it's broader and also used before disagreeing.

I must say

A simple expression to introduce a statement of personal opinion or assessment, often positive.

in my estimation

Frames the statement as a personal judgment, implying expertise or experience.

frankly speaking

Indicates directness and honesty, often leading to a candid self-assessment.

honestly

Similar to "frankly speaking", emphasizing sincerity in the following statement.

FAQs

How can I use "modesty aside" in a sentence?

You can use "modesty aside" to introduce a statement where you acknowledge that you might be boasting but believe the statement to be true. For example, "Modesty aside, I am the greatest shopper in the world."

What phrases are similar to "modesty aside"?

Alternatives include phrases like "without false modesty", "if I may say so myself", or "not to brag".

Is it appropriate to use "modesty aside" in formal writing?

While "modesty aside" is generally acceptable, consider the context. In very formal writing, a more restrained tone might be preferable. Consider using less direct alternatives.

What's the difference between "modesty aside" and "with all due respect"?

"With all due respect" is used to preface a disagreement or criticism, while "modesty aside" is used to preface a potentially boastful statement about oneself.