Word
modestly
Phoneticsmod·est·ly, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈmɑdəstɫi/
UK/mˈɒdəstli/
Adverb of manner
Definition
adv. in a way that is not too proud or does not show off. It can also mean in a small or limited amount.
adv. in a manner that avoids self-assertion or boastfulness; alternatively, to a limited or moderate degree. Often modifies verbs of speaking or adjectives of size and quantity.
Examples
“She smiled modestly when they praised her work.”
“The company's profits grew modestly this year, showing a small but steady improvement over last summer.”
“Despite his significant contributions to the field of physics, the professor spoke modestly of his achievements, attributing much of his success to the support of his colleagues.”
Examples
simple
“She smiled modestly when they praised her work.”
contextual
“The company's profits grew modestly this year, showing a small but steady improvement over last summer.”
complex
“Despite his significant contributions to the field of physics, the professor spoke modestly of his achievements, attributing much of his success to the support of his colleagues.”
Usage
Typically follows the verb it modifies when describing behavior, or precedes an adjective when describing degree.
Real-World Examples
“Yet the gap between richer and poorer countries has narrowed only modestly.” “Around several major releases in 2023, the monthly share of posts expressing trust increased modestly.” Etymology
From modest + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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