Words / C2

MOD-ik-uh-m/ˈmɒdɪkəm/

A modicum is a small, limited amount of something (often a modicum of): a modicum of sense, not a modicum of evidence. A bit (already in the dictionary) is everyday a small amount; little and tiny (already in the dictionary) are everyday smallness. A scintilla (already in the dictionary) is the slightest trace; paucity and dearth (already in the dictionary) are too little, and a shortage. This batch: plenitude is fullness — the opposite flavour. Missing dates are none, not a small gap.

Meaning

A small, limited amount of something (often a modicum of).

Examples

• “There was not a modicum of a date in the ethics log.”
• “A bit is a small amount (already in A2). Little is small / not much (already in A1). Tiny is very small (already in A2). A scintilla is the slightest trace (already in C2). Paucity is too little (already in C2). Dearth is a shortage (already in C2). Plenitude is abundance (this batch) — the contrast. A short log can still be complete. Empty cells are not a small gap; they are none. Write the dates or write that they are missing.”

Good to know

A small amount. Everyday: bit / little / tiny (already in this dictionary). Close: scintilla / paucity / dearth (already in C2). This batch: plenitude (the contrast). Tiny ≠ blank.

Near in meaning

bit, iota, shred, scintilla

New