a decent picture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decent picture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an image or photograph that is satisfactory or acceptable in quality. Example: "After reviewing the photos from the event, I think we managed to capture a decent picture of the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

If you can get a decent picture out of it.

Cornell University

That should build up a decent picture of the cargo's contents and reduce false positives.

MIT Technology Review

If you can imagine human entrails spilling from tiled walls and world maps, you've got a decent picture of Ms. Varejão's art.

The New York Times

After he had been at it for two and a half years, he became discouraged because he "still hadn't taken a decent picture".

The New York Times

When it gets dark on a canal, you eat, fiddle about with the telly trying to get a decent picture, give up, get cold and retire.

The Guardian - Travel

A decent picture of the feasibility of circular business models is starting to emerge from a business, supply chain, policy and design perspective.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Until you have a decent enough picture to show off to your best friend or your mom or your boyfriend (who will won't understand why you're sending him this nailfie).

Huffington Post

We've already got a little real-life video with HTC's Flyer tablet, but the throng was too great yesterday to take any decent pictures.

TechCrunch

I suppose if you can launch a nuclear strike from Air Force One, you can probably get a decent television picture.

The Guardian

While there is no internationally agreed definition of the boundary of a city, measuring the density of "urban agglomerations" – including adjacent suburbia as well as the administrative city proper – gives a decent comparative picture.

The Guardian

Even without an intellectual dimension, "Dying of the Light" would make a decent espionage picture, a companion to the similarly character-driven "A Most Wanted Man". The notion of an undercover agent with an untrustworthy mind is a great gimmick — and on a commercial level, "Dying of the Light" sometimes plays as just another high-concept vehicle for a comically overacting Mr. Cage.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing visual media, choose "a decent picture" to convey an image that meets basic standards of quality and clarity without necessarily being exceptional.

Common error

Avoid using "a decent picture" when the image is of truly high quality or artistic merit. In such cases, opt for terms like "a stunning photograph" or "an exceptional image".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent picture" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the quality of a photograph, image, or depiction, suggesting it is of acceptable or satisfactory standard. The analysis provided by Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a decent picture" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe an image that meets satisfactory standards of quality. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable expression suitable for a variety of contexts. While not implying exceptional quality, it conveys that an image is adequate for its intended purpose. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources but is also prevalent in academic settings and online wikis. When seeking alternatives, consider options like ""a good image"" or ""an acceptable photo"" to tailor the nuance to your specific needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a good image

Focuses on the positive aspect of the image's quality.

an acceptable photo

Emphasizes that the photo meets a minimum requirement or standard.

a reasonable likeness

Highlights the accuracy of the representation.

a satisfactory depiction

Stresses that the picture fulfills expectations.

a passable representation

Indicates a minimal level of quality or acceptability.

a fair portrayal

Suggests an unbiased and reasonably accurate depiction.

an adequate rendering

Focuses on the technical quality and sufficiency of the image.

a respectable illustration

Highlights the presentable nature of the picture.

a tolerable image

Implies that the image is barely acceptable but still usable.

a usable photograph

Emphasizes the practical value and suitability of the photo for a specific purpose.

FAQs

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

You can use "a decent picture" to describe an image that is satisfactory in quality but not necessarily outstanding. For example, "I was hoping to get a professional shot, but this is "a decent picture"."

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

Alternatives include "a good image", "an acceptable photo", or "a satisfactory depiction", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a decent picture" or "a good picture"?

"A decent picture" implies a satisfactory but not exceptional image, while "a good picture" suggests a higher level of quality. The choice depends on the specific impression you want to convey.

When should I use "a decent picture" instead of "a clear picture"?

"A decent picture" refers to the overall quality, while "a clear picture" emphasizes the absence of blur or distortion. Use "a decent picture" when you're assessing general quality and "a clear picture" when clarity is the main focus.