a respectable portion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a respectable portion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or considerable amount of something, often in a positive context. Example: "The restaurant served a respectable portion of pasta, enough to satisfy even the hungriest diners."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

On Saturday, the Sikhs came to feed the city, or a least a respectable portion of it, from 24th to 26th Street on Madison Avenue, at the end of the parade route.

The New York Times

Although wind generates only about 1% of all electricity globally, it provides a respectable portion in several European countries: 20% in Denmark, 10% in Spain and about 7% in Germany.

The Economist

I learnt that most of the good shops fitted into two areas that allowed you to see a respectable portion of Paris, including a few of the tourist sights.

The Guardian - Travel

By John Cassidy March 6, 2016 As Super Saturday wound down, Senator Marco Rubio was in Puerto Rico, hoping to pick up a respectable portion of the island's twenty-three delegates.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

That same year the newspaper reported on the possibility of installing benches on the malls but observed that they would "naturally be used by undesirable characters to the exclusion of the respectable portion of the community, making this thoroughfare a rendezvous for a disreputable class of persons".

The New York Times

A respectable showing would suffice.

The New York Times - Magazine

Unemployment is a respectable 5.5%.

The Economist

That is a respectable calling.

The Economist

In a respectable way.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A respectable conservative.

The Guardian - Opinion

A bird of courage; a respectable bird.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a respectable portion" when you want to convey that an amount is not only adequate but also worthy of esteem or consideration. It's more nuanced than simply saying "a lot".

Common error

Avoid using "a respectable portion" in very casual conversations. It can sound overly formal or stilted in informal settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a good amount" or "a decent share" in casual contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a respectable portion" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It indicates the amount or quantity of something while also implying that the amount is considerable and worthy of respect or appreciation. Ludwig's examples show it is used with countable and uncountable nouns.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a respectable portion" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signifies a noteworthy and commendable amount of something. Ludwig's analysis confirms its usage in formal contexts like news and media, implying a level of significance beyond mere quantity. While synonyms like "a considerable amount" and "a substantial part" exist, "a respectable portion" adds a layer of positive assessment. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context and register of your writing, avoiding overuse in overly casual settings. Be precise in conveying that amount is not only big, but also appreciable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considerable amount

Emphasizes the significant quantity or size.

a substantial part

Highlights that the portion is large and important.

a significant share

Implies the portion represents a notable percentage.

a sizable chunk

Indicates a large and noticeable segment.

a decent quantity

Suggests the amount is adequate and satisfactory.

a fair proportion

Conveys that the portion is just and reasonable.

a good fraction

Implies that the portion is a notable part of the whole.

an appreciable quantity

Highlights that the amount is noticeable and measurable.

a noteworthy segment

Emphasizes the importance or relevance of the portion.

a reasonable amount

Indicates that the portion is moderate and acceptable.

FAQs

How can I use "a respectable portion" in a sentence?

You can use "a respectable portion" to describe a significant quantity or amount of something, often in a positive or appreciative way. For example: "The charity received "a respectable portion" of donations this year".

What are some alternatives to using "a respectable portion"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a considerable amount", "a substantial part", or "a significant share".

Is there a difference between "a respectable portion" and "a large portion"?

"A large portion" simply indicates size, while "a respectable portion" implies the size is not only significant but also worthy of recognition or appreciation. The latter carries a slightly more positive connotation.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a respectable portion"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that an amount is not only sufficient but also commendable or noteworthy, often in formal writing or when discussing achievements or contributions.