provide a modicum of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "provide a modicum of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express the idea of giving a small or minimal amount of something, often in a formal context. Example: "The charity aims to provide a modicum of support to families in need during the winter months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"Mayoral control can provide a modicum of stability.

The New York Times

Its aim is to provide a modicum of systemic stability by discouraging arbitrary arrest and prosecution.

The New York Times

But the role of the board — even for a company controlled by a family dynasty — is to provide a modicum of oversight.

The New York Times

They have ideas, tactics, systems and other new-fangled methods that provide a modicum of comfort in the absence of self-belief.

The Guardian - Sport

From this she must pay her rent, tuition and all the things that provide a modicum of comfort in a third-world country.

The New York Times

The orderliness extends to the residents, who have assembled the detritus of two weeks on a gym floor — donated clothes, blankets, folding chairs — into neat barriers that provide a modicum of privacy from the neighbors.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

It provided a modicum of hope".

The Guardian - Books

Some have been loyal standbys, providing a modicum of style while shielding us from the elements.

The New York Times - Arts

This experiment suggests that even an incomplete warning system provides a modicum of protection.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Northern Alliance provided a modicum of security when nobody else was in a position to do it.

The New York Times

Around thirty-five peoccupyccupy a group of adobe homes and trailers, with mesquite trees providing a modicum of shade.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something abstract, such as support or comfort, using "provide a modicum of" can add a layer of nuance, suggesting a small but meaningful contribution.

Common error

Avoid using "provide a modicum of" in informal settings or when simpler phrasing would suffice. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted or pretentious. In casual conversation, consider using phrases like "offer a little" or "give a bit of" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide a modicum of" primarily functions as a verb phrase that modifies a noun, indicating the act of supplying something in a limited quantity. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. Examples show it modifying abstract nouns such as "stability", "comfort", and "security".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "provide a modicum of" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase, according to Ludwig. It is employed to express the action of supplying a small or limited amount of something, often in formal or professional contexts. While grammatically correct, remember that simpler phrasing might be more appropriate in casual settings. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media and scientific writing, demonstrating its use in conveying measured or tempered information. As shown by Ludwig, "provide a modicum of" serves to accurately reflect a limited provision, helping to ensure clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Offer a small degree of

Replaces "modicum" with "small degree", emphasizing the limited quantity being offered.

Supply a minimal amount of

Uses "minimal amount" instead of "modicum", providing a slightly less formal alternative.

Grant a slight measure of

Substitutes "provide" with "grant" and "modicum" with "slight measure", suggesting a more formal tone.

Afford a limited quantity of

Employs "afford" and "limited quantity", indicating the scarcity of what's being supplied.

Lend a touch of

Replaces "modicum" with "touch", implying a very subtle or delicate provision.

Impart a hint of

Similar to "lend a touch of", but suggests something even less substantial is being provided.

Bestow a trace of

Uses "bestow" to imply a deliberate granting of something, albeit in a very small amount.

Extend a small portion of

Focuses on providing a part, specifically a small one, of a larger whole.

Furnish a shadow of

Indicates providing something that is barely there, like a shadow.

Give a semblance of

Suggests providing something that only appears to be the real thing, implying a superficial offering.

FAQs

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

You can use "provide a modicum of" when you want to indicate that something offers a small or limited degree of something else. For example, "The new policy will "provide a modicum of" relief to struggling families."

What are some alternatives to "provide a modicum of"?

Alternatives include "offer a small amount of", "supply a minimal amount of", or "give a little bit of", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is "provide a modicum of" formal or informal?

"Provide a modicum of" is generally considered a formal phrase. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "give a little" or "offer some" may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "provide a modicum of" and "provide a lot of"?

"Provide a modicum of" indicates providing a small or limited amount, while "provide a lot of" suggests providing a significant or abundant amount. The choice depends on the quantity you want to convey.