a question of decency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question of decency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing matters related to moral standards or ethical behavior. Example: "In this situation, it's not just about legality; it's a question of decency to treat everyone with respect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But on Friday he issued a statement saying that he, like most involved, believed the judge should be allowed to attend: "It is simply a question of decency and compassion to the bar mitzvah boy not to ruin his day".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Given that prevailing ethos of constant availability and self-importance, there must be a simple risk for a politician in being the last person left reading by a Tuscan poolside, white wine at their side.But it is also partly a question of common decency, I think, especially in an age of 24 hour rolling news, when the decision by a leader to stay on holiday is so exceedingly visible.

The Economist

It was a question of whether the establishment's sense of "taste and decency" could cohabit with Ryan's brand of indecency.

The Guardian

Beyond any legal ramifications lies a fundamental question of common decency.

Huffington Post

C.K.'s standup is not merely confessional, it's also focussed on sex and ethics, as well as on questions of decency, fatherhood, masculinity, and, at times, feminism.

The New Yorker

But the question of its decency is more complicated.

The Guardian - Books

There may be a time to debate such questions — but not, as any national leader with a sense of decency would understand, now.

The Washington Post

That is a matter of decency.

Independent

This is a failure of decency and good sense.

The New York Times

9 1 A DEFICIT OF DECENCY, by Zell Miller.

The New York Times

Cliff was a caricature of "decency".

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a question of decency" when you want to frame a situation as one that requires ethical consideration and adherence to moral standards, not just legal compliance.

Common error

Avoid using "a question of decency" when referring solely to matters of etiquette or politeness; reserve it for situations involving genuine moral or ethical implications.

Linguistic Context

A question of decency functions as a noun phrase that introduces a topic or situation requiring ethical or moral evaluation. Based on Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and emphasizes the importance of moral standards in decision-making.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a question of decency" is a phrase used to frame situations as requiring ethical consideration beyond mere legality or social norms. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the expression is grammatically correct but relatively rare. It’s most commonly found in news and media, serving to underscore the moral dimensions of a topic. When using this phrase, ensure the context involves significant ethical considerations, distinguishing it from simple politeness. Alternatives like ""a matter of morality"" or ""a matter of ethics"" can offer similar emphasis on ethical or moral dimensions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of morality

Focuses on the underlying moral principles rather than the act of showing respect or appropriateness.

a matter of ethics

Emphasizes a code of conduct or a set of moral principles guiding behavior.

an issue of moral principle

Highlights the fundamental beliefs that guide ethical behavior in a given situation.

a point of ethical consideration

Directly addresses the ethical dimension, emphasizing careful deliberation.

an act of common courtesy

Refers to polite behavior within social norms, differing from broader ethical considerations.

a standard of ethical conduct

Highlights the codified or expected behaviors based on moral standards.

a display of respect

Focuses more on the outward manifestation of respect rather than an internal code of ethics.

a moral imperative

Emphasizes the compelling nature of a moral decision or action.

basic human kindness

Highlights compassion and empathy, focusing on fundamental, simple acts of goodwill.

simple good manners

Emphasizes socially acceptable behavior and etiquette rather than ethical principles.

FAQs

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

You can use "a question of decency" to introduce a situation where ethical considerations are paramount, such as, "Allowing the judge to attend was "a question of decency", not legal obligation".

What phrases are similar to "a question of decency"?

Similar phrases include "a matter of morality", "a matter of ethics", or "an issue of moral principle", each emphasizing different aspects of ethical behavior.

When is it appropriate to use "a question of decency"?

It's appropriate when discussing situations where ethical behavior and moral standards are being considered, particularly when these considerations go beyond legal or formal requirements.

Is "a question of decency" formal or informal?

The phrase "a question of decency" is generally neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it leans slightly toward formal when discussing serious ethical issues.