a decent justification

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decent justification" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the adequacy or reasonableness of an explanation or rationale for a particular action or decision. Example: "The committee required a decent justification for the proposed changes to the policy before moving forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The affection for this track was real: thanks to speed typing, with decent justification and links, we received two nominations within seconds of each other as the theme was announced.

The Guardian - Music

Moreover, it is "a decent respect to the opinions of mankind" that requires this justification.

Huffington Post

The Fuhrman section becomes a mini-portrait in its own right, and viewers will be left to argue over whether he is a decent man exploited by cutthroat lawyers or a flawed racist with a talent for self-justification.

Los Angeles Times

First, a decent spirit.

The New Yorker

A decent suitcase.

Independent

A decent man.

The Economist

"A decent night," he said.

The New York Times

He was a decent man.

The New York Times

You get a decent haircut.' ".

The New York Times - Arts

Rangel is a decent man..

The New York Times

He was a decent guy.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a decent justification", ensure that the reason you are providing is not only acceptable but also morally sound and ethically defensible within the given context.

Common error

Avoid using "a decent justification" when a stronger, more compelling rationale is necessary. If the situation demands a robust and irrefutable reason, opt for phrases like "a compelling justification" or "an unassailable argument" to convey the seriousness of the rationale.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent justification" functions as a noun phrase, where "decent" modifies the noun "justification". Ludwig AI suggests that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a decent justification" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a reason or explanation that is adequate and acceptable. Though Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it is relatively rare in usage, primarily found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the justification is morally sound and ethically defensible. Alternatives such as "an adequate explanation" or "a satisfactory rationale" may be more appropriate in certain contexts. Avoid overstating the strength of the justification if a more compelling reason is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an adequate explanation

Focuses on the sufficiency of the explanation provided, rather than its moral quality.

a satisfactory rationale

Emphasizes that the rationale meets a certain level of acceptance or fulfillment of requirements.

a valid reason

Highlights the legitimacy and soundness of the reason given.

a plausible argument

Focuses on the believability and persuasiveness of the argument presented.

a compelling defense

Suggests the justification strongly advocates for or protects a particular stance.

a sound basis

Implies a firm and reliable foundation for the justification.

a well-founded explanation

Stresses that the explanation is supported by evidence and logical reasoning.

a legitimate excuse

Indicates the excuse is lawful, reasonable, or justifiable.

an acceptable alibi

Highlights the exculpatory aspect, particularly in legal or accusatory contexts.

a reasonable ground

Implies that the basis or motive is fair and justifiable under the circumstances.

FAQs

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

You can use "a decent justification" when you want to express that a reason or explanation is adequate and acceptable. For example: "The proposal requires "a decent justification" to be approved."

What's a more formal alternative to "a decent justification"?

In more formal contexts, you can use phrases like "an adequate rationale" or "a satisfactory explanation" instead of "a decent justification."

When is it appropriate to use "a decent justification"?

"A decent justification" is appropriate when the situation requires an explanation that is more than just superficial but doesn't necessarily need to be exceptionally strong or elaborate. It implies a reasonable and acceptable basis for a decision or action.

What is the difference between "a decent justification" and "a good justification"?

"A decent justification" implies that the reason is adequate or acceptable, while "a good justification" suggests that the reason is not only acceptable but also persuasive and well-supported. "Good" indicates a higher degree of quality than "decent."