# modicum

/ˈmɑdɪkəm/ (US) · /mˈɒdɪkəm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/modicum
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a small amount of something, especially when you need it to be enough. You use it when you want to say that even a little bit of something is helpful.

For teachers: a small but sufficient amount of something. Often used in the phrase 'a modicum of' to indicate that even a minimal quantity is adequate for a purpose.

## Examples

- The team needs a modicum of respect to work well.
- The manager offered a modicum of support, though it was clear he was more interested in the project's success than the team's well-being.
- While the initial proposal lacked the necessary detail, it provided a modicum of clarity that allowed the committee to begin the preliminary stages of the review process.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.