Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a decent version of
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a decent version of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a satisfactory or acceptable adaptation or interpretation of something. Example: "I think this is a decent version of the original story, capturing its essence while adding a modern twist."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Wiki
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
3 human-written examples
Worse, I stopped enjoying foods I loved as I couldn't cook a decent version of them and wouldn't swallow my pride and buy them instead.
News & Media
Clearly Sony knows having a decent version of the game could be a selling point for people who aren't into PC gaming.
News & Media
She was a decent version of that: deliberate misunderstanding of the questions, plus a few dutiful jabs with the pre-planned soundbites.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
57 human-written examples
And... can you really get a decent version south of Bawtry?
News & Media
This is an angel no less, sent to Earth to encourage us to play a surprisingly decent version of PES according to that score-compiling website, you know the one, Pro Evo 2009 is actually, officially, the best on Nintendo's motion-controlled console.
News & Media
This is an angel no less, sent to Earth to encourage us to play a surprisingly decent version of PES – according to that score-compiling website, you know the one, Pro Evo 2009 is actually, officially, the best on Nintendo's motion-controlled console.
News & Media
I had a decent version at the Four Sisters bar in Canonbury in north London.
News & Media
At their best, however, skilled barmen of the day could make decent versions of the Clover Club or the Sidecar.
News & Media
And how many will prefer a cheaper omnibundle like the $99 a year Amazon Prime that offers decent versions of each of these?
News & Media
I took my passion for all things Sega further, picking up a 32X in 1996, but even with decent versions of DOOM and Virtual Racing to call my own, it was to the Mega-CD that I consistently turned, until university took me away from its permanently grinding, reset-to-open drawer.
News & Media
I took my passion for all things Sega further, picking up a 32X in 1996, but even with decent versions of DOOM and Virtua Racing to call my own, it was to the Mega-CD that I consistently turned, until university took me away from its permanently grinding, reset-to-open drawer.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "a decent version of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the original or ideal version is, providing a clear point of comparison for the reader.
Common error
Avoid using "a decent version of" when describing purely subjective experiences or preferences. Instead, opt for more descriptive adjectives that capture the nuance of your opinion.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a decent version of" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, typically describing an adaptation, rendition, or interpretation that meets a basic standard of acceptability. Ludwig indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.
Frequent in
News & Media
33%
Wiki
33%
Science
33%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "a decent version of" is used to describe something that is an acceptable or satisfactory, but not necessarily exceptional, rendition or adaptation. Ludwig confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable, with its register being generally neutral and fitting in news, wiki and scientific contents. Related phrases include "a satisfactory rendition of" and "an acceptable adaptation of". While the phrase is suitable for many contexts, it's best to avoid it in highly formal writing in favor of more precise language.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a satisfactory rendition of
Replaces 'decent' with 'satisfactory' and 'version' with 'rendition', implying an acceptable performance or representation.
an acceptable adaptation of
Substitutes 'decent' with 'acceptable' and 'version' with 'adaptation', suggesting a modified form that meets requirements.
a reasonable facsimile of
Uses 'reasonable facsimile' instead of 'decent version', indicating a close but not perfect copy.
a respectable iteration of
Substitutes 'decent' with 'respectable' and 'version' with 'iteration', indicating an improved or refined form.
a passable interpretation of
Replaces 'decent' with 'passable' and 'version' with 'interpretation', implying a barely acceptable understanding or performance.
a fair representation of
Uses 'fair representation' instead of 'decent version', suggesting an unbiased and accurate depiction.
a solid take on
Uses 'solid take' instead of 'decent version', suggesting a reliable and well-executed approach.
a sound equivalent of
Replaces 'decent' with 'sound' and 'version' with 'equivalent', implying a comparable and reliable alternative.
a credible imitation of
Substitutes 'decent' with 'credible' and 'version' with 'imitation', suggesting a believable copy.
an adequate presentation of
Replaces 'decent' with 'adequate' and 'version' with 'presentation', implying a sufficient but not exceptional display.
FAQs
How can I use "a decent version of" in a sentence?
You can use "a decent version of" to describe something that is an acceptable but not necessarily outstanding rendition or adaptation of something else. For example, "I was hoping to find "a decent version of" the software online."
What can I say instead of "a decent version of"?
Alternatives include "a satisfactory rendition of", "an acceptable adaptation of", or "a reasonable facsimile of", depending on the specific context.
Is it appropriate to use "a decent version of" in formal writing?
While generally acceptable, in very formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives that better convey the specific level of quality or accuracy you wish to express.
What is the difference between "a decent version of" and "a good version of"?
"A good version of" generally implies a higher level of quality and satisfaction compared to ""a decent version of"". "Decent" suggests something is adequate or acceptable, whereas "good" suggests something is of a higher standard.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested