modicum of respect

USAGE SUMMARY

"modicum of respect" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate a small amount of respect, usually when the speaker does not believe the person being spoken to is deserving of much more. For example: "I will show you a modicum of respect since you are my colleague, but I don't think you deserve it".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"Only longevity earned us some modicum of respect.

The New York Times - Magazine

He also, though, needs to treat his shareholders with at least a modicum of respect.

The New York Times

How could New Jersey's state university gain national attention, and a modicum of respect?

The New York Times

If you have no respect for me, I nevertheless expect a modicum of respect for my wife".

The New Yorker

But it does demand a modicum of respect for others – even those who have lost respect for themselves.

The Guardian - Books

If you are a decent person who gives people a vague modicum of respect, you won't be.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

So I've got a modicum of grudging respect for those who lose their cool during radio or TV interviews.

The Guardian - Opinion

Hence, a band such as the Cribs have been allowed to grow and grow with only a modicum of critical respect, to the point where their forthcoming album, Ignore the Ignorant, is almost being seen as their breakthrough.

The Guardian - Music

And maybe, at least for a while, a modicum of grudging respect.

Los Angeles Times

That's the official response to what's already clear on the ground--that international and interracial marriage is no longer a rare or socially exceptional thing, and that peoples of different colors, creeds, and other stripes are here to stay and also require a modicum of social respect.

Huffington Post

To let herself be befriended by a woman, she'd have to have a modicum of self-respect, and what is that?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "modicum of respect", ensure the context clearly conveys that the respect being given is limited or begrudging. This can add nuance to your writing, particularly when describing complex relationships or social dynamics.

Common error

Avoid using "modicum of respect" when the situation warrants a stronger expression of respect. This phrase implies a minimal level, and using it inappropriately can undermine your message and appear insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modicum of respect" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It describes the quantity of respect being given, implying it is small or limited. Ludwig examples show it used to denote the minimum level of consideration due.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "modicum of respect" is a frequently used expression that conveys a sense of limited or minimal respect. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for a variety of writing styles, particularly in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "a little respect" or "slight respect" exist, "modicum of respect" offers a specific nuance, suggesting that the respect being given is perhaps less than fully deserved or willingly offered. The key takeaway is to use this phrase intentionally, understanding its implications for the overall message and tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a little respect

Replaces "modicum" with "a little", simplifying the phrase while retaining the core meaning of a small amount of respect.

slight respect

Substitutes "modicum" with "slight", offering a more direct and common synonym to indicate a small degree of respect.

a degree of respect

Uses "degree" instead of "modicum", suggesting a measurable amount of respect, albeit a small one.

some level of respect

Replaces "modicum" with "some level", generalizing the phrase to indicate an unspecified but limited amount of respect.

minimal respect

Emphasizes the bare minimum of respect being shown, replacing "modicum" with "minimal" for a stronger sense of limitation.

basic respect

Indicates a fundamental level of respect that should be afforded, focusing on the essential nature of the respect given.

a touch of respect

Uses a more figurative term, "touch", to convey a subtle or delicate amount of respect.

iota of respect

Replaces "modicum" with "iota", highlighting an extremely small or almost nonexistent amount of respect.

hint of respect

Similar to "touch", suggests a very subtle and perhaps barely noticeable amount of respect.

scant respect

Emphasizes the inadequacy or insufficiency of the respect shown, using "scant" to indicate a lacking amount.

FAQs

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

You can use "modicum of respect" to describe a situation where someone is shown a small amount of respect, often when it's the least that can be offered. For example: "Despite their differences, they showed each other a "modicum of respect" during the negotiation."

What's a good alternative to "modicum of respect"?

Alternatives to "modicum of respect" include "a little respect", "slight respect", or "minimal respect". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "modicum of respect" in formal writing?

Yes, "modicum of respect" is appropriate for formal writing. While not overly formal, it's a clear and professional way to indicate a limited amount of respect. Be mindful of the context to ensure it conveys the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "modicum of respect" and "full respect"?

"Modicum of respect" implies a small or minimal amount of respect, often given grudgingly or as the bare minimum required. "Full respect", on the other hand, indicates complete and genuine admiration or consideration. The difference lies in the degree and sincerity of the respect shown.