a modicum of decency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modicum of decency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small amount of decency or moral integrity in a person or situation. Example: "In a world filled with chaos, we must strive to maintain a modicum of decency towards one another."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

He said of Blatter's presidency, "If he has a modicum of decency, he will resign in the next few days".

Independent

Given what the N-word means not just in US history, but to race relations across the world, a modicum of decency should censure any impulse to utter it.

The Guardian - Opinion

We wanted to cover celebrity news with a modicum of decency, which meant that instead of ambulance-chasing a stricken Britney Spears, we were asking why we had got to a stage where people thought it was OK to do so.

Independent

Notwithstanding the belated success of General Petraeus's 2007 troop surge and the concurrent Sunni Awakening, which permitted us to carry out our troop withdrawal with a modicum of decency, the Iraq war represents a geostrategic catastrophe of colossal proportions for the U.S., not to mention a humanitarian catastrophe for Iraqis.

The New Yorker

What can come to seem most affecting isn't a hotshot P.I. parceling out the witty comebacks, but a character we like (often one with some wear on him) simply trying to get through life with a modicum of decency and self-respect.

The New York Times - Books

Anyone with a flicker of a conscience or a modicum of decency stands, as I do, with the women who've summoned the courage to tell the truth about Harvey Weinstein.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The government is entitled to insist upon a certain modicum of decency," Scalia said to Verrilli.

Huffington Post

No one with a modicum of sense or a vestige of decency would stand near a pool, watch children topple in one after another, and wring their hands over the dreadfully complicated problem and the need for innumerable committees to contend with it.

Huffington Post

Or should we hold tight to the modicum of decency in all of us?

The Guardian

George's essential decency allows him to find a modicum of happiness.

The Guardian - Film

A modicum of people like it.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a modicum of decency" to express the need for a small but significant amount of ethical behavior or politeness in situations where it is lacking.

Common error

Avoid using "a modicum of decency" when a higher standard of ethical behavior is clearly required. The phrase implies a minimal expectation, so ensure it aligns with the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modicum of decency" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to a small or moderate amount of ethical behavior or politeness. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modicum of decency" is a noun phrase that expresses the need for a small but significant amount of ethical behavior or politeness. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, where ethical considerations are often debated. While not overly formal, the phrase carries a neutral tone suitable for serious discussions. Remember to use "a modicum of decency" when expressing a desire for minimal standards of politeness or ethics, and consider alternative phrases like "a touch of decency" if you want to emphasize the small degree of decency expected.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A touch of decency

Replaces "modicum" with "touch", implying a slightly smaller amount.

A degree of decency

Substitutes "modicum" with "degree", suggesting a more measurable quantity.

A shred of decency

Uses "shred" instead of "modicum", emphasizing a minimal amount of decency.

A hint of decency

Replaces "modicum" with "hint", indicating a subtle presence of decency.

A minimum of decency

Substitutes "modicum" with "minimum", highlighting the lowest acceptable level of decency.

Some semblance of decency

Replaces "a modicum of" with "some semblance of", suggesting an outward appearance of decency.

A measure of integrity

Shifts focus from general decency to the more specific concept of integrity.

A basic level of respect

Replaces "decency" with "respect", emphasizing courteous behavior.

A small amount of fairness

Replaces "decency" with "fairness", focusing on equitable treatment.

A little bit of kindness

Replaces "decency" with "kindness", focusing on a compassionate act.

FAQs

How can I use "a modicum of decency" in a sentence?

You can use "a modicum of decency" to express the need for a small amount of ethical behavior or politeness. For example: "Even in heated debates, we should maintain "a modicum of decency" towards each other."

What is a synonym for "a modicum of decency"?

Synonyms for "a modicum of decency" include phrases like "a touch of decency", "a degree of decency", or "a shred of decency". These alternatives emphasize a small but significant amount of ethical behavior.

In what contexts is "a modicum of decency" most appropriate?

"A modicum of decency" is suitable in contexts where basic ethical standards are expected, such as politics, journalism, or interpersonal relationships. It's often used when even minimal politeness or integrity is lacking.

Is it better to ask for "a modicum of decency" or something more?

The choice depends on the situation. If you're addressing a situation where even minimal standards are not met, asking for "a modicum of decency" is appropriate. However, in situations requiring higher ethical standards, it's better to demand "a high level of integrity" or "unwavering ethical standards".