a decent lock

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decent lock" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a lock that is satisfactory or of acceptable quality, often in the context of security or functionality. Example: "For the price, I expected a decent lock that would keep my belongings safe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Also, you'll need a decent lock.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

See Using Decent Locks for advice on U locks, and Selecting a Lock Location for how to select an object to secure your bike to.

WikiHow

Quite a decent loaf.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Given the many, many different possible patterns (any math majors want to tell me how many?), it seems like a decent way to to lock and unlock a phone.

TechCrunch

if you are really a decent rider you can lock the back brakes and slide carefully down hill (put your feet down to stabilize yourself. Back-pedal slowly to get more friction.

WikiHow

The Rangers sure could use him Monday night against the Penguins, a crucial game if the Rangers want to lock down a decent playoff spot.

The New York Times

But, let's be realistic here, media companies are risk-averse and realize that if they can sell Hulu, give up some exclusive content in the process and concurrently lock in a decent annuity that is more than a positive outcome for what was once labeled Clown Corp. by an influential blog a few years ago.

TechCrunch

My advice to Londoners is to lock down a decent flat now, and keep guard over your Cornish pasties.

Huffington Post

For example, a business might hedge against rising oil prices by buying a financial product to secure stable fuel costs, so an airlines might have an interest in locking in a decent price.

Huffington Post

If you are lucky enough to have an awesome place at a decent price, do your best to lock-in your current rental rates for as long as you can stomach it.

TechCrunch

It comes with an automatic transmission, a decent CD player, air-conditioning, cruise control, remote locking, power windows and power mirrors.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to security measures for valuable items, using "a decent lock" can assure a basic level of protection without implying excessive expense or complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "a decent lock" when describing high-security situations that require specialized or heavy-duty locking mechanisms. It's better to be specific about the type of lock and its security rating in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent lock" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "decent" modifies the noun "lock". It serves to describe the quality of the lock, indicating that it is of acceptable or satisfactory standard. According to Ludwig, this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a decent lock" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a lock of acceptable quality. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples from diverse sources. While the phrase is not exceptionally common, it appears in news, media, and wiki contexts. For alternative expressions, consider "a satisfactory lock" or "a reliable lock", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When employing this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the level of security being described and is not overstated for high-security scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a satisfactory lock

Emphasizes the lock meets the minimum requirements or expectations.

a reliable lock

Highlights the trustworthiness and dependability of the lock.

a good quality lock

Focuses on the superior materials and construction of the lock.

an adequate lock

Suggests the lock is sufficient for a particular purpose.

a serviceable lock

Indicates the lock is functional and meets basic needs.

a competent lock

Implies the lock is capable and well-suited for its intended use.

a reasonable lock

Conveys that the lock is fair or appropriate in terms of price and performance.

a passable lock

Suggests the lock is barely acceptable but still functional.

a moderate lock

Highlights that the lock is middle-of-the-road in quality and features.

a standard lock

Indicates the lock conforms to a typical or common level of quality.

FAQs

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

You can use "a decent lock" to describe a lock that provides an acceptable level of security, as in, "I bought "a decent lock" for my bicycle to prevent theft."

What's a good alternative to "a decent lock"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "a decent lock" include "a reliable lock", "a satisfactory lock", or "a good quality lock".

Is it appropriate to use "a decent lock" in formal writing?

Yes, "a decent lock" is appropriate for formal writing when describing an adequate level of security without exaggeration. However, in highly technical contexts, it's best to specify the lock's features and security ratings.

What level of security does "a decent lock" imply?

"A decent lock" implies a moderate level of security that is sufficient for everyday use and protection against basic theft. It doesn't imply high-security features like those found in specialized or heavy-duty locks.