a very decent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a very decent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is quite acceptable or satisfactory in quality or character. Example: "The restaurant offered a very decent meal for the price we paid."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a very decent family.

The New York Times

He's a very decent man".

The New York Times

A very decent swim, but no medal.

The Guardian - Sport

I made a very decent living.

The New Yorker

He was just a very decent man".

The Guardian

He's just a very decent guy".

The New York Times

"He is a very decent guy".

The New York Times

That was a very decent shot.

The Guardian - Sport

A very decent but imperfect bird.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Should be a very decent second half.

The Guardian - Sport

Besides, the northerners gave a very decent account of themselves.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a very decent" to describe something that exceeds basic expectations but doesn't necessarily reach exceptional levels. It suggests a positive assessment without being overly enthusiastic.

Common error

Avoid using "a very decent" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "respectable", "satisfactory", or "adequate" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a very decent" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the noun as being of reasonably good quality or character, indicating an acceptable or satisfactory level. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Sport

22%

Lifestyle

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Arts

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a very decent" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that conveys a positive but not exceptional assessment. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Sport, and Lifestyle contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to use more formal synonyms in academic writing. Related phrases include "quite good" and "genuinely respectable". When using this phrase, aim to describe something that is more than adequate, but less than outstanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quite a good

This alternative uses "good" instead of "decent", emphasizing the positive quality.

remarkably acceptable

This alternative conveys acceptability to a notable degree, stronger than "decent".

genuinely respectable

This alternative focuses on the respectability aspect, implying moral or social approval.

truly satisfactory

This alternative highlights the fulfilling or gratifying nature of something.

exceptionally adequate

This alternative suggests that something is more than just sufficient; it excels in meeting requirements.

considerably proper

This option focuses on the appropriateness and correctness of something.

fairly commendable

This highlights the praiseworthy nature of something, implying it deserves recognition.

really commendable

This highlights the praiseworthy nature of something, implying it deserves recognition.

wholly worthy

This alternative indicates something is entirely deserving of respect or admiration.

highly suitable

This alternative stresses the fitness or appropriateness for a specific purpose.

FAQs

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

You can use "a very decent" to describe something that is quite acceptable or satisfactory. For example, "He made "a very decent living"" or "That was "a very decent shot"".

What are some alternatives to "a very decent"?

Alternatives include "quite good", "remarkably acceptable", or "genuinely respectable", depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a very decent" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a very decent" may sound informal for certain formal contexts. Consider using more sophisticated synonyms like "respectable" or "satisfactory" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "a very decent" and "excellent"?

"A very decent" suggests something is good and acceptable, while "excellent" implies something is outstanding and of the highest quality. "A very decent" is a more moderate assessment than "excellent".