modicum of warmth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modicum of warmth" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or moderate amount of warmth, often in a figurative sense, such as in relationships or interactions. Example: "Despite the tension in the room, she offered a modicum of warmth with her smile, easing the atmosphere slightly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

By the time the snow and wind began in earnest, too many had been suckered into staying, and instead of flying south, instead of already having flown south, they were huddled in people's yards, their feathers puffed for some modicum of warmth.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Yet Patrick needs him, and whatever modicum of redemption he can find will be in what he can give when he has nothing to give — to create a tiny emotional clearing of warmth in his dead soul.

The New Yorker

She was capable of warmth and joy.

The New York Times - Magazine

The lack of warmth was mutual.

The Guardian

But it did have elements of warmth.

The New York Times - Travel

Nothing this year matched that level of warmth.

The New York Times

3. Island of warmth.

Forbes

Handsome decor full of warmth and comfort.

Forbes

The office is a place of warmth.

Los Angeles Times

Loose diamonds are conductors of warmth.

WikiHow

Bundle up in several layers of warmth.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "modicum of warmth" to subtly express a limited but noticeable degree of comfort, kindness, or physical heat. It's particularly effective in describing situations where warmth is unexpected or scarce.

Common error

Avoid using "modicum of warmth" when describing intense heat or profound emotional connection. The phrase is designed to convey subtlety and understatement, not overwhelming sensations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modicum of warmth" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a limited quantity of a quality (warmth), typically in either a literal (physical heat) or figurative (emotional comfort) sense. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modicum of warmth" is a noun phrase that describes a small or limited amount of warmth, either physical or emotional. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and primarily found in news and media contexts. While not overly common, it's a useful phrase for subtly conveying a limited degree of comfort or kindness. Alternatives like "slight warmth" or "touch of warmth" can provide similar meaning with slightly different nuances. Be mindful of overstating the intensity when using this phrase, as it's best suited for conveying subtlety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight warmth

Replaces "modicum of" with "slight", emphasizing the small degree of warmth.

touch of warmth

Substitutes "modicum" with "touch", highlighting a gentle and subtle feeling of warmth.

hint of warmth

Replaces "modicum" with "hint", suggesting an indirect or barely perceptible presence of warmth.

degree of warmth

Replaces "modicum" with "degree", maintaining a similar level of formality but emphasizing the measurable aspect of warmth.

small measure of warmth

Replaces "modicum" with "small measure", adding a more descriptive and slightly formal tone.

faint warmth

Replaces "modicum" with "faint", stressing the weak intensity of the warmth.

little bit of warmth

Replaces "modicum" with the more informal "little bit", making the phrase sound more casual.

semblance of warmth

Substitutes "modicum" with "semblance", indicating an outward appearance of warmth that may not be genuine.

iota of warmth

Replaces "modicum" with "iota", emphasizing an extremely small amount of warmth.

shade of warmth

Substitutes "modicum" with "shade", suggesting a subtle and nuanced quality of warmth.

FAQs

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

You can use "modicum of warmth" to describe a small amount of heat, affection, or comfort. For instance, "Despite their initial hostility, she offered a "modicum of warmth" with a smile."

What are some alternatives to "modicum of warmth"?

Alternatives include "slight warmth", "touch of warmth", or "hint of warmth", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "modicum of warmth" formal or informal?

"Modicum of warmth" is generally considered a somewhat formal phrase. In more casual contexts, "little bit of warmth" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "modicum of warmth" and "semblance of warmth"?

"Modicum of warmth" suggests a small but genuine amount of warmth. "Semblance of warmth" implies an outward appearance of warmth that may not be sincere or deeply felt.