a decent time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decent time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a reasonable or satisfactory duration for an event or activity. Example: "We had a decent time at the party, enjoying the music and conversations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

She suggested the mother see that her daughter get to bed at a decent time.

The New Yorker

Now is a decent time for the Mercurys to correct that.

The Guardian - Music

"With McDonald's, there will be no liquor served, and we will close at a decent time.

The New York Times

Spence was a couple of seconds off her best but posted a decent time of 2 16.51, climbing to ninth.

Independent

"I would like to run a decent time but for me the most important thing is winning medals," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

Now people are dipping their toes in the water and thinking it might be a decent time to get involved".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Kelly does, as Kosminsky imagined, come across like a character from a more decent time.

The Guardian

Lucas says, "If that seems easy, go pick up your favourite game and attempt to get a half decent time in under a week.

Vice

But I think this set is a decent enough time after the event to be in a more party frame of mind".

The Guardian - Music

But I've had a pretty decent time with it so far".

The Guardian - Music

Loads of finishers to come still, so don't read too much into it, although it is a very decent time.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing schedules or deadlines, use "a decent time" to convey that the allotted time is sufficient for the task.

Common error

Avoid using "a decent time" in highly formal documents like legal contracts; opt for more precise terms like "a reasonable timeframe" or "a sufficient duration".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decent time" functions as an adverbial phrase, often modifying verbs to indicate when an action should or does occur. It specifies that the timing is appropriate or adequate, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

22%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a decent time" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a moment or duration that is adequate or suitable. As Ludwig AI highlights, its usage spans across various contexts, from news and media to informal conversations. While it's generally appropriate for neutral registers, it's best to avoid it in highly formal settings where more precise language is preferred. Related phrases such as "a reasonable duration" or "a satisfactory period" can offer greater specificity depending on the context. When writing, remember to consider the level of formality required and ensure that "a decent time" accurately conveys the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reasonable duration

Focuses on the length of something being adequate.

a satisfactory period

Emphasizes that the time frame meets expectations.

an adequate amount of time

Highlights that there's enough time to accomplish something.

a respectable duration

Implies the time is appropriate and worthy of respect.

a fair amount of time

Indicates an equitable or just duration.

a good while

A more informal way to express a significant duration.

a suitable interval

Suggests the time is well-suited for a specific purpose.

an acceptable timeframe

Highlights that the period falls within certain requirements.

a comfortable duration

Implies the length of time is easy to manage or handle.

a sufficient period

Stresses that the time is enough for something to occur.

FAQs

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

You can use "a decent time" to refer to a period that is adequate or satisfactory for a given purpose. For instance, "I'd like to get to bed at "a decent time" tonight to feel rested tomorrow."

What phrases are similar to "a decent time"?

Similar phrases include "a reasonable duration", "a satisfactory period", or "an adequate amount of time". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "decent time" without the article "a"?

While grammatically understandable, it's more common and natural to include the article "a" before "decent time", as in ""a decent time"". Omitting "a" might sound slightly less formal or less polished.

What's the difference between "a decent time" and "a good time"?

"A decent time" usually refers to an adequate duration or a suitable moment, whereas "a good time" refers to an enjoyable experience. For example, "We had a good time at the party", not "We had "a decent time" at the party".