a decent reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decent reason" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the validity or adequacy of a justification for an action or decision. Example: "I need a decent reason for why we should change our current strategy before making any adjustments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

For some, and presumably for Bill Shorten, that's a decent reason to increase excise.

The Guardian - Opinion

There was a decent reason for the fans to be in Davenport's corner more than Serena's yesterday.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not a decent reason to leave, but as the Dungeon Master hopes to teach us, the world is not a decent place to live.

The New Yorker

While a member of the Gotti clan might stick out in the federal headquarters like a vegan at a Peter Luger Steak House, Mr. Agnello had a decent reason to go inside.

The New York Times

I don't know enough about how all this works to know how good a reason this is for optimism, but at some point such evidence of keeping lost weight off becomes a decent reason for thinking one is or is likely on one's way to being an outlier.

Yale University

To say that it is illegitimate to deny "the people suffrage over an issue long thought to be within their power" is to hold that there is a decent reason to permit them to deny marriage rights to same-sex couples.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

I am also "Facebook friends" with a bunch of people for absolutely no reason other than I can't find a decent enough reason to mildly offend them by their culling.

Huffington Post

In fact, if you are not a hypocrite in this sense, if you cannot favor one side for no decent reason over the other, then you cannot enjoy sports at all.

The New Yorker

Yes, technology can save the economy the sustainable economy that is the only ethical, decent reason we have to load future generations with huge amounts of debt.

MIT Technology Review

Even if her parents did sometimes bend their own rules, trotting out references to Chelsea when it might be politically convenient, there was no decent reason to push them further.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It's the police department, or the drug economy, or the political structures, or the school administration, or the macroeconomic forces that are throwing the lightning bolts and hitting people in the ass for no decent reason".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a decent reason", ensure that the reason provided is genuinely justifiable and aligns with the context. Avoid using it for weak or flimsy excuses.

Common error

Avoid using "a decent reason" when the justification is clearly inadequate or unconvincing. Instead, opt for phrases that convey a weaker sense of justification, such as "a possible explanation" or "a potential factor".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent reason" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies and describes the justification or rationale behind an action or decision. Ludwig provides examples showcasing its application in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

19%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a decent reason" is a common and grammatically correct way to express the presence of an acceptable justification. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, primarily in news and media, academic writing, and general discussions. While it indicates an adequate explanation, it might not convey the same level of strength as "a good reason". When employing this phrase, ensure the reason aligns with the context and avoids being overstated. Alternatives such as "a valid explanation" or "a justifiable cause" can offer nuanced shades of meaning. Remember, providing "a decent reason" contributes to clarity and understanding in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valid explanation

Emphasizes the logical soundness and acceptability of the explanation.

a justifiable cause

Highlights the moral or legal defensibility of the reason.

a legitimate basis

Focuses on the lawfulness and recognized authority of the reason.

a sound argument

Implies a well-structured and convincing line of reasoning.

a compelling motive

Stresses the persuasive and irresistible nature of the reason.

a plausible rationale

Suggests the reason is believable and credible, even if not definitively proven.

a good alibi

Specifically refers to a reason used to explain one's whereabouts during a particular event.

a sufficient justification

Indicates that the reason is adequate to warrant the action or decision.

a credible account

Emphasizes the trustworthiness and reliability of the reason given.

an acceptable excuse

Suggests the reason is adequate to overlook a fault or failure.

FAQs

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

You can use "a decent reason" to express that there is an acceptable or justifiable explanation for something. For example, "I need "a decent reason" for being late."

What are some alternatives to "a decent reason"?

Alternatives to "a decent reason" include "a valid explanation", "a justifiable cause", or "a legitimate basis" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a decent reason"?

It's appropriate to use "a decent reason" when you want to convey that there is a reasonably good or acceptable explanation for a particular action or event. It suggests the reason is more than just a flimsy excuse.

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

While both phrases imply a valid justification, "a decent reason" might suggest a slightly lower standard than "a good reason". "A good reason" typically indicates a stronger, more compelling justification, while "a decent reason" suggests it's adequate or acceptable.