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# of modest means

phrase (adjective phrase used after a noun: a family of modest means, people of modest means)

«of modest means» in the English dictionary: in the primary school — its meanings, how the lessons use it, and examples, each with its tree on Mova.

## In the primary school

Source: Mova's pupils' dictionary. Licence: [Elamur Cosmic License](https://mova.elamur.ai/free/en/docs/LICENSE/). Reviewed: the dictionary the pupils of Mova's primary school read; its examples quote the lessons and public-domain tales. Ships with Mova.

### Meaning

(euphemism, polite) poor or not rich; having little money.

### In the lessons

Used in news, biographies and polite talk to say someone does not have much money without saying «poor», which can sound rude. Polite and formal register, all English-speaking countries.

### Examples

- He grew up in a family of modest means.
- The scheme helps students of modest means.
- Despite her modest means, she gave to charity.
- We were a family of modest means — no holidays abroad.
- The new houses are for people of modest means.
- A man of modest means can't buy a car like that.

### Note

«Means» here = money (a plural noun). It is a soft word for poor or of low income. Plain words: poor, not rich.