modicum of privacy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modicum of privacy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need for a small or limited amount of privacy in various contexts, such as personal life, digital security, or public spaces. Example: "In today's digital age, many people feel that they are losing even a modicum of privacy as their personal information is constantly being collected and shared."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

No doubt he did so with at least a modicum of privacy.

The New York Times - Sports

When the hoopla of Friday settles, the newlyweds are probably looking for a modicum of privacy.

The New York Times

"I only wear this just to try and maintain a modicum of privacy".

Independent

"I only wear this just to try to maintain a modicum of privacy".

The Guardian - Music

Virtually all had outdoor showers, usually with enclosures from calf to shoulder height, just enough for a modicum of privacy.

The New York Times

Makeshift screens, essentially sheets draped over metal dividers, were used to give them a modicum of privacy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

PEOPLE, of course, sometimes like to keep secrets and maintain separate social realms — or at least a modicum of their privacy.

The New York Times - Tech

Snapchat isn't popular just because ephemeral messaging is cool — it's popular because it brings a modicum of more privacy at zero friction to end users.

TechCrunch

Follow DJ on Twitter: @djpangButn.

Vice

She has asked for a modicum of respect and privacy for her family (read children).

Huffington Post

FISA has been the law for thirty years and while far from perfect, it has provided a check on unfettered Executive Branch spying and provided a modicum of protection for the privacy rights of Americans.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about privacy, consider the specific context and use "modicum of privacy" to indicate a small, often barely sufficient, amount of privacy, especially when highlighting its lack or infringement.

Common error

Avoid using "modicum of privacy" when describing situations where a significant level of privacy is present. This phrase is best reserved for scenarios where privacy is limited or compromised.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modicum of privacy" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. It describes a limited or small amount of privacy, often in contexts where privacy is compromised or threatened. Ludwig examples show its usage in various scenarios, highlighting the challenge of maintaining even a small degree of privacy in different situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "modicum of privacy" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a small or limited amount of privacy. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it frequently appears in News & Media contexts, often in discussions about the challenges of maintaining privacy in the digital age. While semantically replaceable with phrases like "small degree of privacy" or "limited amount of privacy", it carries a nuance that emphasizes scarcity or fragility. The phrase maintains a neutral register, and, as Ludwig AI correctly identifies, its usage is widespread and contextually appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small degree of privacy

Emphasizes the limited extent of privacy.

limited amount of privacy

Highlights the restricted quantity of privacy available.

minimal level of privacy

Focuses on the basic or lowest acceptable privacy standard.

basic right to privacy

Frames privacy as a fundamental entitlement, even if limited.

some semblance of privacy

Suggests that the privacy is not fully realized or may be superficial.

a touch of privacy

Implies a delicate or fragile sense of privacy.

hint of privacy

Similar to "a touch of privacy", suggesting a subtle or faint privacy.

shade of privacy

Suggests privacy exists within certain limited boundaries.

respect for personal space

Highlights physical or digital boundaries that ensure privacy.

an element of discretion

Focuses on the careful handling of personal information to maintain privacy.

FAQs

How can I use "modicum of privacy" in a sentence?

Use "modicum of privacy" when you want to emphasize that only a small amount of privacy exists or is possible. For example, "Even with security measures, users can only expect a "modicum of privacy" online."

What can I say instead of "modicum of privacy"?

You can use alternatives like "small degree of privacy", "limited amount of privacy", or "minimal level of privacy" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "modicum of privacy"?

Yes, it is correct. "Modicum of privacy" is a standard phrase used to indicate a small or limited amount of privacy, as supported by numerous examples in reliable sources.

What's the difference between "basic right to privacy" and "modicum of privacy"?

"Basic right to privacy" implies an inherent entitlement to privacy, while "modicum of privacy" suggests a smaller or reduced level of privacy. The former emphasizes entitlement, and the latter emphasizes quantity.