Words / B1

MOD-ist/ˈmɒdɪst/

Modest means not large, or not wanting to boast. Small is everyday; humble is a close twin for character. Mix-up: moderate (amount, not pride). Pay: a modest rise still lagged inflation.

Meaning

Not large; not wanting to talk about your own success.

Examples

• “A modest pay rise still lagged inflation on the ward.”
• “A modest candidate still needs a strong personal statement, which is the character sense.”

Good to know

a modest + rise / home / proposal. Character: not boastful. Everyday: small. Mix-up: moderate. Pay / housing. Not “modist”.

Near in meaning

small

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