modicum of solace

USAGE SUMMARY

'modicum of solace' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a small amount of comfort in an otherwise difficult or challenging situation. Example: She tried to find a modicum of solace in the knowledge that she had done her best.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

After the war, Nora assembled an album of her boys, a grieving mother seeking a modicum of solace.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

How dare they enjoy a modicum of economic comfort?

The New York Times

Will just a soupçon of solace suffice?

The New York Times

Quantum of Solace is released October 31.

The Guardian - Film

But "Quantum of Solace" is pretty bad.

The New Yorker

Suggested lyrics: "Quantum of solace, quantum of solace / Blofeld was played by Telly Savalas".

The New Yorker

I find a lot of solace in housework.

The New York Times

He was the villain opposite Daniel Craig in "Quantum of Solace".

The New York Times - Arts

"Barack hated Quantum of Solace".

Forbes

Poetry was "a kind of solace.

Forbes

A hint of solace for savvy negotiators.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modicum of solace" when you want to convey a small, limited amount of comfort in a difficult or sorrowful situation. It adds a touch of formality and emphasizes the scarcity of comfort.

Common error

Avoid using "modicum of solace" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "a little comfort" or "some relief" are more appropriate in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modicum of solace" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a limited degree of comfort or relief, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, where a grieving mother seeks a "modicum of solace" in an album of her boys.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modicum of solace" is a noun phrase used to describe a small amount of comfort in a difficult situation. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and most commonly found in news and media contexts. While semantically interchangeable with phrases like "small measure of comfort" or "tiny bit of consolation", it carries a slightly more formal tone. Therefore, it's best suited for formal writing and should be avoided in casual conversation. Its function is to express a limited degree of comfort or consolation, making it a valuable tool for conveying empathy and understanding in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small comfort

Simplifies the phrase while retaining the core meaning.

small measure of comfort

Replaces "modicum" with a more common synonym, maintaining the idea of a limited amount of comfort.

tiny bit of consolation

Substitutes both "modicum" and "solace" with synonyms, emphasizing the small quantity and comforting nature.

slight degree of comfort

Uses "degree" instead of "measure", keeping the focus on the intensity of comfort.

minimal amount of peace

Replaces "solace" with "peace", shifting the emphasis to tranquility as a source of comfort.

iota of relief

Emphasizes the smallness of the relief using "iota", a more dramatic synonym for "modicum".

hint of comfort

Focuses on the subtlety of the comfort experienced.

touch of consolation

Similar to "hint", but uses "touch" to convey a light and gentle comfort.

fleeting moment of ease

Highlights the temporary nature of the comfort.

brief respite

Replaces the entire phrase with a concise term for temporary relief.

FAQs

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

You can use "modicum of solace" to describe finding a small amount of comfort in a difficult situation. For example: "After the loss, she found a "modicum of solace" in her friends' support."

What does "modicum of solace" mean?

It means a small or limited amount of comfort or relief. "Modicum" refers to a small quantity, and "solace" refers to comfort or consolation.

What are some synonyms for "modicum of solace"?

Alternatives include "small measure of comfort", "tiny bit of consolation", or "slight degree of comfort".

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

Yes, "modicum of solace" is appropriate for formal writing. It adds a touch of sophistication and precision to your expression, but be aware of your audience.