a decent person

USAGE SUMMARY

"a decent person" is a correct phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone with good moral character and integrity. For example, "My grandmother is a decent person who always tells the truth and treats others with respect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Taylor called Toyah a decent person and someone who was loyal to her friends and family.

Wikipedia

I was a decent person.

The New Yorker

Smith is a decent person, I'm sure.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

What else is a decent person to do?

The New York Times

It's not enough to want to be a decent person.

The New York Times

And I believe he is a decent person".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

I thought if the guilt was too much to bear I would be a decent person.

The New York Times

McCain made sure they knew – Barack Obama is an American citizen and 'a decent person,' " Clinton said.

Los Angeles Times

Underneath the imperiousness and gloppy show business there seemed to live a decent person.

The New York Times - Arts

I'm a decent person, but I'm no Marnie.

The New Yorker

"He projects himself as a solid lawyer and a decent person.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a decent person", ensure the context clarifies the specific qualities that make the person 'decent', such as honesty, kindness, or fairness.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because someone is "a decent person", they are automatically competent or skilled in all areas. Decency primarily relates to moral character, not ability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent person" functions as a noun phrase, with 'decent' acting as an adjective that modifies the noun 'person'. It typically serves to describe or identify an individual based on their moral character or behavior, aligning with examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a decent person" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes someone with good moral character. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is accurate and well-established in written English. The analysis of numerous examples shows its prevalent use in news and media, as well as other sources, to express approval or admiration. While a versatile phrase, it's important to use it in contexts where the specific qualities of decency are clear. Consider synonyms like "a good individual" or "an honorable person" depending on the nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a good individual

Replaces the adjective "decent" with "good", maintaining a general positive connotation.

a morally upright person

Substitutes "decent" with a more formal and emphatic expression of moral character.

an honorable person

Emphasizes the aspect of integrity and adherence to ethical principles.

a person of integrity

Focuses specifically on the quality of having strong moral principles.

a person with good character

Highlights the overall positive qualities of someone's personality.

a kind-hearted person

Shifts the focus to the quality of kindness and empathy.

a respectable individual

Emphasizes the aspect of being worthy of admiration and respect.

a fair-minded person

Highlights the characteristic of impartiality and justness.

an ethical person

Emphasizes adherence to moral principles and professional standards.

a virtuous person

Replaces "decent" with a more formal and somewhat archaic term for moral excellence.

FAQs

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

You can use "a decent person" to describe someone who is moral, honest, and treats others well. For example, "She is "a decent person" who always helps those in need".

What are some synonyms for "a decent person"?

Alternatives to "a decent person" include "a good person", "a moral individual", or "an honorable person".

Is it appropriate to describe someone as "a decent person" in formal writing?

Yes, "a decent person" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when emphasizing their moral character. However, consider using more formal synonyms like "an ethical individual" depending on the context.

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

Being "a decent person" implies possessing qualities such as honesty, integrity, kindness, and respect for others. It suggests someone who generally acts in a morally upright manner.