a decent representation of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decent representation of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how well something reflects or depicts a particular idea, concept, or group. Example: "The painting is a decent representation of the artist's unique style and vision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

ERIK PIEPENBURG AMAZING FEATS There is always a decent representation of clowns, mimes, jugglers, dancers, magicians and burlesque performers at the Fringe.

The New York Times

Here's a decent representation of what it's all about.

Huffington Post

That movie is, supposedly, a decent representation of what warfare was.

Huffington Post

While there was a decent representation of women during the day, as the night wore on, few remained.

Huffington Post

So they decided that it was necessary to have at least a decent representation of African Americans, given that the social fabric was falling apart.

Los Angeles Times

People see this every time you make a post, so make sure it's a decent representation of what you collect, or make it funny, so people know you have a sense of humor.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Hip-hop takes a backseat this year, though Kendrick Lamar and Azealia Banks front a decent representation, in favor of the strong electronic offerings, including Flux Pavilion, Major Lazer, Disclosure, Knife Party and Dillon Francis.

The New York Times - Arts

Side note: there's also the McFly's House (2015) from Back to the Future II... as unrealistic as their version of the future has turned out to be, I will give them that the McFly house is a pretty decent representation of what homes in 2015 look like.

Huffington Post

In order to do so, one would need to acquire some decent representation of the physical structure of the fish (e.g. by using x-rays).

Plosone

Know the facts (and make sure they are truly facts), then sort the evidence to have order and decent representation of it all -- and so, research the topics for yourself!

WikiHow

Granted, OKC is just one of many such sites but I still think it's as decent a representation of these trends as any other.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a decent representation of", ensure that the subject being represented is complex enough to warrant a nuanced or qualified depiction. Avoid using it for simple, straightforward concepts where an exact representation is expected.

Common error

Avoid using "a decent representation of" when the actual representation is excellent or near-perfect. This phrase implies adequacy rather than superiority, so reserve it for situations where there are limitations or compromises in the depiction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent representation of" functions as a qualifier, modifying a noun to indicate the quality or standard of the representation. Ludwig highlights that it is commonly used to describe something that meets an acceptable standard, without necessarily being exceptional.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a decent representation of" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that indicates an adequate, but not necessarily outstanding, portrayal or depiction. Ludwig's analysis of various sources reveals that the phrase is versatile and applicable across different contexts, particularly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science. While it might not be suitable for describing exceptional representations, it serves well to convey that something meets a reasonable standard. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness and usability in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reasonable depiction of

Replaces 'decent' with 'reasonable', suggesting a fair but not necessarily exceptional portrayal.

a fair portrayal of

Substitutes 'decent representation' with 'fair portrayal', emphasizing impartiality and accuracy in the depiction.

an adequate reflection of

Uses 'adequate reflection' instead, indicating that the representation is sufficient but not outstanding.

a sound rendering of

Uses 'sound rendering' to imply that the representation is reliable and well-executed.

a satisfactory account of

Replaces 'representation' with 'account', implying a description that meets minimum requirements.

a plausible presentation of

Replaces 'representation' with 'presentation', focusing on how something is shown or displayed.

a passable likeness to

Suggests a resemblance that is just acceptable, focusing on similarity rather than comprehensive depiction.

a respectable interpretation of

Changes 'representation' to 'interpretation', suggesting a subjective but credible understanding.

a tolerable version of

Indicates that the representation is barely acceptable, implying potential flaws.

a credible imitation of

Emphasizes the believability of the representation, rather than its overall quality.

FAQs

How can I use "a decent representation of" in a sentence?

You can use "a decent representation of" to describe something that adequately, but not perfectly, reflects something else. For example, "The film provided "a decent representation of" the historical events".

What are some alternatives to "a decent representation of"?

Some alternatives include "a fair portrayal of", "an adequate reflection of", or "a reasonable depiction of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a decent representation of" instead of "an accurate representation of"?

"A decent representation of" is appropriate when the portrayal is acceptable but not entirely perfect or precise. If you want to emphasize precision and exactness, "an accurate representation of" is more suitable.

Is "a decent representation of" formal or informal language?

"A decent representation of" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's a neutral phrase that can be used in various types of writing and speech.