a bit of dignity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit of dignity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small amount of respect or honor that someone maintains in a situation. Example: "Even in defeat, she managed to walk away with a bit of dignity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

A bit of dignity, perhaps?

The Guardian - Opinion

So at least he retains a bit of dignity.

The New York Times

But if you want more from your music, treat it with a bit of dignity.

Independent

"We get all that sorted out, so people at least have a bit of dignity when they are discharged".

The Guardian

He's plainly wounded — voice scraped and hollow, sapped of tension — but musters a bit of dignity and sunshine: "I'm so glad/When she was here/She was mine".

The New York Times - Arts

Of "Comedy Dave" bluedaddy suggested "At some point, any person with a bit of dignity would ask that this tag be dropped.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

"It's lost a bit of its dignity," Mr. Clipstone agreed.

The New York Times

The old lion may have lost a few of his teeth, but not a bit of his dignity.

The New York Times

I was able to crawl out of that section of the puzzle with at least a bit of my dignity intact.

The New York Times

"Being under a guardianship takes away our liberty, and a bit of our dignity," he said in an interview on Italian state television.

The New York Times

You get two bacon sodas, one tube of bacon lip balm, a bag of bacon popcorn, one pack of bacon gravy mix — all for low, low cost of $10 and a bit of your dignity.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bit of dignity" to convey that someone retains a minimal level of respect or honor, especially in adverse circumstances. It's useful when emphasizing resilience or self-worth in challenging situations.

Common error

Avoid using "a bit of dignity" when a situation clearly reflects significant honor or respect; instead, use phrases that convey a stronger sense of dignity, such as "great dignity" or "utmost respect".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit of dignity" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as an object or complement in a sentence. It describes the quality or state of being worthy of respect or honor. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a bit of dignity" is a grammatically correct and common expression used to describe a small amount of respect or honor retained in a challenging situation. As Ludwig AI pointed out, it’s appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as scientific discourse, though less so in more formal business or academic settings. While alternatives like "a touch of dignity" or "a measure of dignity" exist, "a bit of dignity" is best used when emphasizing the minimal yet significant presence of self-worth. It's important to avoid overstating the level of dignity when using this phrase, ensuring it aligns with the context to accurately convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a shred of dignity

Emphasizes a very small amount of dignity that remains.

a measure of dignity

Indicates a certain degree or level of dignity.

an ounce of dignity

Similar to 'a shred', highlighting a small but significant amount.

a touch of dignity

Suggests a subtle or delicate presence of dignity.

some semblance of dignity

Implies that the dignity may be superficial or not entirely genuine.

a remnant of dignity

Focuses on what's left of one's dignity after a difficult situation.

a glimmer of dignity

Suggests a brief or fading appearance of dignity.

a spark of dignity

Highlights a small, potentially growing amount of dignity.

a hint of dignity

Implies a subtle suggestion or trace of dignity.

a degree of self-respect

Replaces 'dignity' with a related concept, focusing on personal worth.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit of dignity" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit of dignity" to describe someone maintaining a small amount of respect or honor in a difficult situation. For example: "Even after the scandal, he tried to resign with "a bit of dignity"."

What are some alternatives to "a bit of dignity"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a touch of dignity", "a measure of dignity", or "a shred of dignity", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a bit of dignity"?

It's appropriate when referring to a situation where someone manages to keep some self-respect or honor despite challenging or embarrassing circumstances. It suggests a minimal but present degree of decorum or self-worth.

How does "a bit of dignity" differ from "full of dignity"?

"A bit of dignity" implies a small or limited amount of dignity, often in a difficult situation, while "full of dignity" suggests someone possesses a great deal of honor and self-respect. The former is used when one barely manages to maintain respect, while the latter describes someone who consistently acts with honor.