a decent amount

USAGE SUMMARY

"a decent amount" is correct and usable in written English.
You would typically use this phrase to describe a quantity that is satisfactory or satisfactory but not excessive. For example, "I received a decent amount of feedback on my project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Build in a decent amount of ease.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I now make a decent amount to pay my bills".

The New York Times

There's a decent amount of space in the cabin, however.

Independent

Stocks are also paying out a decent amount of money.

The New York Times

Our Web site has a decent amount of information.

The New York Times

He takes a decent amount of shots and he's got a decent amount of power, so I think overall it's going to be a good fight for me".

The Guardian - Sport

"Consumer and business demand still has a decent amount of momentum behind it".

The New York Times

Yes, there's still a decent amount of time left before Election Day — but only in theory.

The New Yorker

After all, you're still paying a decent amount and you're entitled to expect the best.

Independent

"However, I was surprised to see a decent amount of rests forming part of the song.

Independent

Inside, the Corolla provides a decent amount of room for everyone.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a decent amount", ensure the context provides a clear understanding of what constitutes a 'decent' quantity in that specific situation. For example, "a decent amount of rain" implies enough rain to be beneficial, whereas "a decent amount of patience" implies a considerable level of tolerance.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "a decent amount" without providing further context or a more specific measure when precision is important. For instance, instead of stating "add a decent amount of salt", quantify it with "add about a teaspoon of salt" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent amount" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a quantity that is considered satisfactory or acceptable. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

32%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a decent amount" is a versatile expression used to indicate a satisfactory or acceptable quantity of something. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. It is most frequently found in news and media and wiki contexts, with a neutral register suitable for a variety of writing styles. While semantically similar alternatives exist, "a decent amount" provides a concise and common way to convey adequacy or sufficiency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a good quantity

This alternative conveys a positive assessment of the amount, implying that it is sufficient or desirable.

an adequate amount

This alternative highlights that the amount is sufficient or satisfactory for a specific purpose.

a sufficient quantity

This alternative highlights that the amount is enough to meet a particular need or purpose.

a reasonable quantity

This alternative suggests a quantity that is appropriate or justified, implying moderation or lack of excess.

a fair quantity

This alternative means an amount that is equitable or just, implying a sense of balance or reasonableness.

a substantial quantity

This alternative indicates a large amount, emphasizing size or importance more than satisfaction.

a considerable quantity

This alternative suggests a notable quantity, emphasizing size or significance more strongly than "a decent amount".

an appreciable quantity

This alternative indicates that the amount is noticeable or significant.

a respectable quantity

This alternative indicates an amount worthy of respect or admiration, focusing on the quality rather than just adequacy.

a tolerable amount

This alternative emphasizes that the quantity, although not ideal, is acceptable under the circumstances.

FAQs

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

You can use "a decent amount" to indicate a quantity that is satisfactory or acceptable. For example, "He saved "a decent amount of money" for his retirement" or "She showed "a decent amount of effort" on the project".

What are some alternatives to "a decent amount"?

Some alternatives include "a good amount", "a fair amount", "a reasonable amount", or "a substantial amount", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "a decent amount" or a more specific quantity?

While "a decent amount" is acceptable in many informal contexts, using a more specific quantity (e.g., "two cups", "five kilograms") is preferable when precision is important, especially in technical, scientific, or formal writing.

What's the difference between "a decent amount" and "a significant amount"?

"A decent amount" suggests that the quantity is adequate or satisfactory, while "a significant amount" implies that the quantity is notably large or important. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize adequacy or importance.