relatively modest

USAGE SUMMARY

"relatively modest" is a perfectly acceptable phrase that can be used in written English.
For example, you might say "The event had relatively modest attendance compared to last year's."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Fiscal deficits are relatively modest.

The Economist

Household debt is relatively modest.

The New York Times

Their aims were relatively modest.

The Guardian - Music

But then their dreams are relatively modest.

Independent

Fossil fuel resources are relatively modest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These measures, too, sound relatively modest.

The New Yorker

The accounts are relatively modest in size.

The Economist

But that increase is still relatively modest.

Harvard Business Review

But the purchases could be relatively modest.

The New York Times

Ford's expectations were relatively modest, however.

The New York Times

Sales on both were relatively modest.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "relatively modest", ensure you have a clear point of comparison. It implies something is smaller or less significant compared to something else, so make that 'something else' evident.

Common error

Avoid using "relatively modest" as a vague qualifier. Always provide context or a point of reference to make the comparison meaningful. Saying 'The cost was relatively modest' is less effective than 'The cost was relatively modest compared to the initial estimates'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively modest" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is limited or small in comparison to something else. Ludwig's examples showcase its role in qualifying various nouns such as 'deficits', 'debt', 'aims', 'dreams', 'expectations' or 'wheels'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "relatively modest" is a commonly used adjective phrase that means something is limited or smaller in comparison to something else. As shown by Ludwig's examples, it is grammatically correct and broadly acceptable across numerous contexts, most frequently in news and media. When employing this phrase, be sure to supply a clear point of comparison to enhance clarity. Alternatives include "somewhat limited" or "moderately small". As Ludwig AI confirms, "relatively modest" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat limited

Indicates a slight or partial limitation, differing in emphasis from "relatively modest".

moderately small

Specifies the size as being moderate rather than emphasizing a relative comparison.

comparatively minor

Highlights the minor nature of something when compared to something else.

reasonably low

Focuses on the lowness of a quantity or degree, adding a sense of acceptability.

quite limited

Emphasizes the constrained nature of something more directly than "relatively modest".

fairly restricted

Stresses the constraint or limitation imposed on something.

somewhat restrained

Highlights the controlled or suppressed nature of something.

measurably smaller

Emphasizes that something is smaller and that it can be quantified.

appreciably reduced

Highlights the reduction in something and that it is noticeable.

noticeably less

Emphasizes that something is less and easily observed.

FAQs

How can I use "relatively modest" in a sentence?

You can use "relatively modest" to describe something that is limited or smaller in comparison to something else. For example, "The company's profits were relatively modest this quarter compared to last year".

What's a good alternative to "relatively modest"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "somewhat limited", "moderately small", or "comparatively minor".

Is it better to say "relatively modest" or "quite modest"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but they have slightly different connotations. "Relatively modest" explicitly implies a comparison, whereas "quite modest" simply emphasizes the degree of modesty. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended meaning.

What does "relatively modest" mean in the context of financial investments?

In finance, "relatively modest" typically indicates that the returns, risks, or investment amounts are lower compared to other available options or industry averages. It suggests a conservative approach.