a comparatively decent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a comparatively decent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the quality or standard of something to another, indicating that it is relatively good. Example: "The restaurant was a comparatively decent choice for dinner, especially considering the other options in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Government jobs and the Fort Jackson military base help prop up state capital Columbia's economy, and in Augusta, the promise of jobs from nearby Fort Gordon military base and its state university contribute to a comparatively decent three-year job growth outlook:.03%.03%

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Although the terms were comparatively decent, the recruiter sitting in a folding chair in front of the blue van had found only one suitably young laborer by 5 a.m.

The New York Times

Mr. Liu and many other workers interviewed described the working conditions as comparatively decent.

The New York Times

His predecessor did, eventually: at the boom's end, in one of his administration's comparatively decent last acts, Gordon Brown in effect legalised the return of council housing.

The Guardian - Opinion

They seem to think that their comparatively decent compensation is down to some kind of magnanimity on the part of the bosses.

Vice

How dare they keep going on strike?" For some reason, these people have a hard time connecting the fact that workers on the Tube haven't yet been reduced to outright penury with the fact that their unions are actually willing to take action when necessary; they seem to think that their comparatively decent compensation is down to some kind of magnanimity on the part of the bosses.

Vice

Winning the top spot for a third week in a row, Avengers: Age of Ultron dominated a comparatively weak frame, with no major Hollywood blockbusters arriving to offer decent competition for the Marvel franchise picture.

The Guardian - Film

It still has a comparatively minor role.

Independent

The price was a comparatively low $399,000.

The New York Times

That was a comparatively benign forecast.

The New York Times

(SunTrust shares fell a comparatively low 2.3percentt).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a comparatively decent", ensure that the context provides a clear point of comparison. This helps the reader understand what the subject is being compared to and why it's considered decent in that context.

Common error

While grammatically correct, overuse of "a comparatively decent" can make your writing sound repetitive or lacking in precision. Try to use stronger, more descriptive alternatives to convey the level of quality or acceptability you intend.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a comparatively decent" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun. It describes something as being of a better standard than something else when assessed against a certain benchmark, like in Ludwig's example regarding job growth.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a comparatively decent" is an adjective phrase used to describe something as being better than something else in comparison. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and mainly appears in News & Media contexts. Its usage indicates a nuanced assessment, implying that something is reasonably good especially when contrasted with less favorable options. While appropriate for formal writing, it's essential to use it judiciously and consider if a stronger adjective would be more impactful. The phrase is more prevalent in News & Media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Relatively acceptable

Focuses on the acceptability of something in relation to a standard.

Comparatively satisfactory

Emphasizes the satisfaction level in comparison to alternatives.

Reasonably good by comparison

Highlights the positive aspect of being better when viewed against something else.

Moderately superior

Suggests a limited degree of excellence in comparison.

Slightly above average

Indicates a position just better than the norm.

Somewhat decent in comparison

Similar to the original but adds a touch of uncertainty or qualification.

Fairly respectable relatively

Implies a level of respectability that is achieved through comparison.

Marginally better

Emphasizes a small improvement or advantage.

Comparatively adequate

Focuses on the sufficiency of something in relation to what is required or expected.

Decent when compared

A more succinct way of saying that something is decent only when held up against something else.

FAQs

How can I use "a comparatively decent" in a sentence?

Use "a comparatively decent" to indicate that something is better than another thing, particularly when the alternatives aren't great. For instance, "Given the circumstances, the food was "a comparatively decent" meal".

What phrases are similar to "a comparatively decent"?

Similar phrases include "relatively acceptable", "reasonably good by comparison", or "somewhat decent in comparison". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a comparatively decent" or "a relatively decent"?

Both "a comparatively decent" and "a relatively decent" are correct, but "comparatively" emphasizes a direct comparison more strongly. "Relatively" simply means in relation to something else, while "comparatively" invites a specific comparison.

Can "a comparatively decent" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "a comparatively decent" is appropriate for formal writing, but consider whether a more precise or descriptive adjective would be more effective. In some cases, a stronger word might add more impact.