a decent citizen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decent citizen" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who behaves in a morally acceptable way and contributes positively to their community or society. Example: "In our community, we value a decent citizen who respects the law and helps their neighbors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

This ain't 'feeling the Bern.' It's just trying to be a decent citizen and as transparent as I can be".

Independent

The notion that reading a novel or magazine could turn a decent citizen into a criminal — or that banning one could make the streets safer — sounds preposterous today.

The New York Times

You see, there are relatively few ways for a decent citizen to be transgressive without risk of penalty, and chipping away at our friends' parental authority is about as good as it gets.

The New York Times

Why should a decent citizen like himself, a dentist, a mensch who deserved to relive life as a soaring eagle or ensconced in the lap of some sexy socialite getting his fur stroked, come back ignominiously as an entrée on a menu?

The New Yorker

I get beaten up in the media every now and then but I do get to try the new Christmas food early July 8 , 201411.35am BST Bolland is hammering home that M&S is a decent citizen -- we work with children to clean beaches, and we've trained in-store staff to become Dementia Friends, he says.

The Guardian - Business

She doesn't match any of the criteria of a decent citizen in our current politics; but that's a fault in the politics, which is kept afloat by a po-faced self-righteousness that can't brook a joke in case empathy and fellowship come rushing in alongside it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Because at a time when any decent citizen should be concerned with how many students are crammed into our public school classrooms, I'm worried that my club is becoming overcrowded with new members.

The New York Times - Style

But he said the film's ultimate message was that any decent citizen with genuine intentions could run for office and ultimately do a better job than many elected officials.

The New York Times

I say this is the duty of all decent citizens left.

TechCrunch

What I can't fathom is why this company, so long seen as the consumer's friend, is turning in the public eye from a decent corporate citizen into a byword for tax avoidance and invading privacy.

The Guardian - Money

I have known Mr. Von Essen as a decent, dedicated citizen who assumed his career responsibilities as a firefighter, union leader and fire commissioner with dedication, honesty and great imagination and spirit.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a decent citizen", consider the specific qualities you want to emphasize, such as law-abiding behavior, community involvement, or moral character.

Common error

While acceptable, "a decent citizen" can sound somewhat generic in formal or academic writing. Opt for more specific and descriptive terms like "responsible individual" or "ethical member of society" to convey your intended meaning more precisely.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent citizen" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes an individual who meets a certain standard of moral and civic behavior. It is often used to denote someone who is law-abiding and contributes positively to society. Ludwig AI indicates that this is correct and usable English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a decent citizen" is a noun phrase describing an individual who is law-abiding and contributes positively to society. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While synonyms like "a good citizen" or "a responsible individual" exist, "a decent citizen" is most frequently found in news and media contexts. When using the phrase, consider the specific qualities you wish to emphasize and avoid overuse in highly formal contexts. Remember, the goal is to express approval or admiration for responsible civic behavior.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a solid citizen

Similar to "a decent citizen" but may imply reliability and dependability.

a respectable member of society

Replaces "citizen" with "member of society" and "decent" with "respectable", emphasizing social standing.

an upstanding member of the community

Similar to "respectable member of society" but focuses on the local community.

a responsible individual

Focuses on the individual's responsibility rather than their citizenship.

an ethical individual

Highlights the person's adherence to ethical principles.

a law-abiding resident

Highlights adherence to the law as a key characteristic.

a contributing member of society

Focuses on the positive contributions the person makes.

a pillar of the community

Emphasizes the person's importance and support to the community.

a virtuous person

Emphasizes moral excellence rather than civic duty.

a good egg

An informal idiom for a kind and decent person.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "a decent citizen"?

Being "a decent citizen" generally means behaving in a morally acceptable way, respecting the law, and contributing positively to the community. It implies a basic level of civic responsibility and ethical conduct.

What are some synonyms for "a decent citizen"?

Some synonyms for "a decent citizen" include "a good citizen", "a responsible individual", "a law-abiding resident", and "a solid citizen".

How can someone become "a decent citizen"?

Someone can become "a decent citizen" by actively participating in their community, obeying laws, respecting others, and contributing to the well-being of society.

Is there a difference between "a decent citizen" and "a good citizen"?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, "a good citizen" might imply a more proactive or exemplary level of civic engagement, while "a decent citizen" suggests a basic level of responsible and ethical behavior.