a decent cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decent cause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a charitable or worthwhile initiative that is considered morally good or acceptable. Example: "Many people donated to the charity because they believed it was a decent cause that would help those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"I go sometimes for business, sometimes for friends who are on the committees, sometimes because I think it's a decent cause, and sometimes it's purely social".

The New York Times

When new methods came in a few years ago, the stated size of the epidemic shrank sharply and it became apparent that the annual rate of new infections had peaked in the late 1990s.Jaw jaw and war warEvery war has its propagandists and the money was for a decent cause.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The authors say the study will also help "investigate the relationship between condom failure and penile dimensions"—a decent enough cause.

Vice

Self-interest is a decent enough cause, but Perowne can't feel, as the marchers themselves probably can, that they have an exclusive hold on moral discernment.

The New Yorker

Bigger by far than his party affiliation, he embodied and fought for just about every decent cause of his era, whether that cause was popular (social insurance) or not (protesting the internment of Japanese Americans during the Second World War).

The New Yorker

Unfortunately, our lack of a decent map caused us to walk around in circles for about an hour until we gave in and wandered over to the stables where Silvia was teaching two children to ride.

Independent

Brand has said he would put these towards "what he considers to be diverse, just and decent causes", including the the Hillsborough Justice Campaign.

The Guardian

As readers will know, last Sunday I was accosted in one of my local pubs by a group of trade union, Labour, and Green Party-aligned activists posing as the champions of what some may perceive as decent causes.

Independent

This is expected, since identity by decent causes homozygosity to increase in ROH regions compared to non-ROH regions.

BMC Genomics

It's a decent sort of cause, but hardly a vote of confidence in theatre itself, or theatre-makers.

The Guardian

If you're looking for a decent contemporary lost cause, you will surely find it in Ukraine, since if it comes to war, no matter who wins, most of the ordinary people will be losers.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a decent cause", ensure that the context clearly establishes the moral or ethical basis of the cause. This helps to reinforce its validity and encourages support or agreement.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "a decent cause" as a generic filler. Always provide specific details or examples to illustrate why the cause is considered decent, adding depth and meaning to your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent cause" functions as a noun phrase, where "decent" modifies the noun "cause". It typically serves to describe an initiative, activity, or organization that is considered morally good or acceptable. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a decent cause" is grammatically sound and used to describe initiatives, activities, or organizations considered morally upright. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across various contexts. While relatively uncommon, the phrase is most frequently encountered in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly supports the cause's ethical basis to enhance its persuasive impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a worthy endeavor

Emphasizes the value and importance of the effort involved.

a commendable undertaking

Highlights the praiseworthy nature of the activity.

a noble pursuit

Suggests a high-minded and honorable aim.

a virtuous activity

Focuses on the moral goodness of the action.

a principled campaign

Emphasizes the adherence to strong moral principles.

a righteous struggle

Implies a fight for justice and what is right.

a reputable charity

Highlights the established good standing and reliability of the organization.

a socially responsible initiative

Focuses on the project's positive impact on society.

a benevolent enterprise

Suggests kindness and generosity in the effort.

a philanthropic venture

Highlights the charitable and humanitarian aspect.

FAQs

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

You can use "a decent cause" to describe a charitable endeavor or an activity that is considered morally good. For example, "Many people donate to that organization because they believe it supports "a decent cause".".

What are some alternatives to saying "a decent cause"?

Alternatives include "a worthy cause", "a noble cause", or "a commendable undertaking", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes a cause "decent"?

A "decent" cause typically aligns with widely accepted moral principles and aims to improve lives or address societal problems in an ethical manner. It's generally seen as fair, just, and beneficial to others.

Is it better to say "a worthy cause" or "a decent cause"?

Both phrases are acceptable and often interchangeable. "Worthy cause" emphasizes the merit and value of the cause, while "decent cause" highlights its moral acceptability and appropriateness. Choose the phrase that best fits the specific context.