modicum
UK/'mɒdikәm/US
GREC2
Definitions
n.
A small or moderate amount of something, especially something desirable.
少量，一点点（尤指可贵的东西）。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Latin modicum 'a little,' the neuter of modicus 'moderate' (from modus, measure). A modicum is literally 'a small measure' — used in the fixed pattern 'a modicum of' before abstract nouns like respect, sense, or comfort. See mod.
Root mod still carries 17 more wordsUsage Guide
Almost always appears as 'a modicum of + abstract noun' (a modicum of respect, sense, truth, comfort). It's formal and slightly literary; in casual speech 'a bit of' or 'a little' is more natural.
Example Sentences
- 1.
She handled the crisis with a modicum of dignity.
- 2.
The plan requires at least a modicum of common sense.