Modicum: meaning, definitions and examples
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modicum
[ หmษdษชkษm ]
a small amount
A modicum refers to a small quantity of something, typically an amount that is considered inadequate or insufficient. It is often used to describe a minimal or token amount of something.
Synonyms
little bit, scant, small amount, trace.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| modicum |
Use this in formal writing or speech to indicate a small but sufficient amount of something positive, often used with qualities like respect, decency, or patience.
|
| small amount |
A neutral and straightforward term, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, to describe a minor quantity of something.
|
| little bit |
This is casual and informal, used in everyday conversation to indicate a small quantity of almost anything.
|
| trace |
Most often used to describe an extremely small and sometimes nearly imperceptible amount of something. It can be used both positively and negatively.
|
| scant |
This word implies a very limited or barely adequate amount, often with a negative connotation. Itโs typically used in more descriptive or literary contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- There was only a modicum of truth in his statement.
- She showed a modicum of interest in the topic.
- The restaurant had a modicum of success in its first year.
- We managed to find a modicum of peace in the midst of chaos.
- I can only offer you a modicum of help in this situation.
a small degree of a quality or trait
A modicum can also refer to a small degree or amount of a particular quality or trait. It is often used to indicate a slight or minimal presence of something.
Synonyms
hint, slight amount, small degree, touch.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| modicum |
Use when indicating a small, but sufficient amount of something.
|
| small degree |
Used when indicating a minor intensity or extent, typically in relation to manner or extent.
|
| slight amount |
Appropriate for describing a small quantity in a neutral or descriptive manner.
|
| hint |
Best used when referring to an indirect suggestion or a very small amount of something, often related to flavors or scents.
|
| touch |
Applicable when suggesting a very minor amount, often in an abstract or emotional context.
|
Examples of usage
- She possessed only a modicum of patience.
- He showed a modicum of talent in his performance.
- The student demonstrated a modicum of understanding of the concept.
- There was a modicum of respect in his tone.
- We need at least a modicum of cooperation to succeed.
Translations
Translations of the word "modicum" in other languages:
๐ต๐น mรญnimo
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฅเฅเคกเคผเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช wenig
๐ฎ๐ฉ sedikit
๐บ๐ฆ ะฝะตะฒะตะปะธะบะฐ ะบัะปัะบัััั
๐ต๐ฑ odrobina
๐ฏ๐ต ๅฐ้
๐ซ๐ท peu
๐ช๐ธ poco
๐น๐ท az miktar
๐ฐ๐ท ์๋
๐ธ๐ฆ ูููู
๐จ๐ฟ trocha
๐ธ๐ฐ trochu
๐จ๐ณ ๅฐ้
๐ธ๐ฎ malo
๐ฎ๐ธ lรญtiรฐ
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐะท ะผำฉะปัะตัะดะต
๐ฌ๐ช แชแแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ az miqdar
๐ฒ๐ฝ poco
Etymology
The word 'modicum' originated from the Latin word 'modicus,' which means 'moderate' or 'just enough.' It entered the English language in the late 15th century and has been used to refer to a small amount or degree ever since. The term has evolved to convey the idea of a minimal or token quantity, often used in contexts where scarcity or inadequacy is emphasized.