on a modest note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a modest note" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a statement or sentiment that is humble or understated, often in contrast to more extravagant or bold statements. Example: "On a modest note, I believe our achievements this year have been significant, but there is still much work to be done."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The show opens on a modest note: a couple of plump nudes by Krishna Hawlaji Ara from the 1960's.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

On a more modest note, Sue Grafton is merely working her way through the alphabet with Kinsey Millhone, private detective, one book at a time.

The New York Times - Books

But yesterday his Inaugural Address hit a more modest note.

The New Yorker

Stop on a good note!

WikiHow

Note that your good options for living well in retirement even on a modest and non-COLA Social Security income include beautiful, welcoming, and exotic choices in the Americas, Southeast Asia, and, yes, even Europe.

Huffington Post

On a modest ideas wall above the desk at which he draws are pictures and slogans including a note: "Make a croque monsieur machine".

Independent

The film was made on a modest budget of £300,000.

BBC

Investors were counting on a modest profit.

Los Angeles Times

These experiments were performed on a modest series of tumours.

British Journal of Cancer

Practice your hobby on a modest scale.

WikiHow

On a cautionary note, as only a modest correlation was observed between SSM001 and plant Taxol concentrations, and since the fungicide treatments did not specifically target SSM001, it is possible that other fungi within Taxus might also elicit plant Taxol biosynthesis, consistent with Taxol acting as a fungicide.

BMC Plant Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a modest note" to introduce a point that is understated or contrasts with a more grandiose statement. This can add a touch of humility or realism to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "on a modest note" too frequently, as it can become repetitive and dilute the impact of your message. Vary your sentence structure and vocabulary to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a modest note" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the verb or clause that follows it. It sets the tone for the subsequent statement, indicating that it should be interpreted with a sense of humility or restraint. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

31%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a modest note" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to introduce a statement with humility or understatement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides various examples. While its register is generally neutral, it appears more frequently in news and media, wiki, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, be mindful of overuse and consider alternatives like "in a humble manner" or "with understated elegance" to avoid redundancy. The expert rating is 4.2 reflecting grammatical correctness, balanced source authority, and usage consistency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a humble manner

Replaces the prepositional phrase with an adverbial phrase, focusing on the way something is done.

with understated elegance

Shifts the focus to a subtle and refined approach, emphasizing elegance rather than modesty.

in a low-key fashion

Emphasizes a relaxed and subtle approach, de-emphasizing attention-grabbing elements.

with quiet restraint

Highlights self-control and subdued expression, suggesting a deliberate effort to avoid excess.

in a self-effacing way

Focuses on minimizing one's own importance, emphasizing humility.

with gentle subtlety

Highlights the delicate and nuanced nature of the approach, emphasizing its finesse.

in a reserved tone

Focuses on the subdued and controlled delivery of the message, rather than the message itself.

with little fanfare

Emphasizes the absence of excessive celebration or publicity, highlighting a low-key approach.

in an unassuming style

Focuses on the lack of pretension or ostentation, emphasizing simplicity and genuineness.

with measured grace

Highlights a balanced and refined approach, emphasizing control and elegance.

FAQs

What does "on a modest note" mean?

The phrase "on a modest note" introduces a statement that is humble, understated, or presented without excessive fanfare. It often serves to temper expectations or to contrast with something more extravagant or boastful.

How can I use "on a modest note" in a sentence?

You can use "on a modest note" to preface a claim or observation that you want to present in a subdued or unassuming way. For example, "On a modest note, the team's performance has improved significantly this quarter".

What are some alternatives to "on a modest note"?

Alternatives include "in a humble manner", "with understated elegance", or "in a low-key fashion", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "on a modest note" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "on a modest note" when you want to introduce information or an opinion that is intentionally understated, or when you wish to avoid sounding overly boastful or assertive. It adds a touch of humility or reservation to your statement.