act of decency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "act of decency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific action that demonstrates kindness, morality, or ethical behavior. Example: "Helping the elderly neighbor with her groceries was a simple act of decency that made her day brighter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The Tigers and Manager Jim Leyland acknowledged that before Thursday's game with the Cleveland Indians by sending out Galarraga with the lineup card to hand to Joyce, an act of decency that should inform all fans.

The New York Times - Sports

McDonagh's ordeal begins during Hurricane Katrina, when he injures his back committing a reckless act of decency in the line of duty, freeing a prisoner from lockdown as the waters rise.

The New York Times

But those moments of redemption seem to happen almost on a knife's edge: they're laced with violence or the potential for it — for instance, the ending of "Escape from Spiderhead," in which the only possible act of decency requires a gruesome suicide, or the last few lines of "Home," in which a desperate man on the point of violence more or less begs to be restrained from it.

The New Yorker

Their basic act of decency is an ethical revolution; people do not surrender as easily as governments do.

Huffington Post

That one act of decency, and in line with military code, leads to a disaster for the men as Taliban rebels are soon alerted and shooting.

Los Angeles Times

We were so busy judging others that we automatically rejected any act of decency from people who just wanted to understand our culture.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The scenes on the news, of people doing small acts of decency, belong in the dreams of David Cameron.

Independent

We are grateful for their skill and courage, and for their acts of decency, which have shown America's character to the world.

The New York Times

Our public interest depends on private character, on civic duty and family bonds and basic fairness, on uncounted, unhonored acts of decency which give direction to our freedom.

The New York Times

Having had the privilege of working under some of the most humane and respectful doctors, I have witnessed how everyday acts of decency and humility generate positive cascading effects toward other staff members and toward patients.

The New York Times

In fact, the scenes which now appear on the daily news, of people sheltering the stranded, doing small acts of decency to help others, belong in the dreams of David Cameron.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "act of decency" to emphasize a specific action that reflects moral principles or kindness, especially in situations where such behavior is unexpected or noteworthy.

Common error

Avoid using "act of decency" to describe everyday politeness. The phrase carries a weight of moral significance, so reserve it for situations where genuine kindness or ethical behavior is demonstrably present and impacts others significantly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "act of decency" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it describes a specific action demonstrating kindness or ethical behavior. Examples in Ludwig show it often highlights moments of unexpected or noteworthy morality.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "act of decency" is a grammatically correct and usable noun phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It denotes a specific action characterized by kindness, morality, or ethical behavior. While categorized as uncommon in frequency, its use is concentrated in news and media contexts. When writing, it's best employed to highlight significant moral gestures rather than routine politeness. Alternatives like "gesture of goodwill" or "display of kindness" can offer nuanced variations. Remember to reserve "act of decency" for when genuine kindness or ethical behavior has a real, meaningful impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simple act of kindness

Emphasizes the simplicity and benevolence of the action.

gesture of goodwill

Emphasizes the positive intention and friendliness behind the action.

expression of morality

Highlights the ethical and moral dimension of the action.

demonstration of compassion

Focuses on the empathy and care shown through the action.

display of kindness

Stresses the gentle and benevolent nature of the act.

exhibition of humanity

Underlines the basic human values demonstrated.

instance of ethical conduct

Highlights adherence to moral principles and professional standards.

token of consideration

Implies thoughtfulness and attention to others' feelings.

example of moral behavior

Specifically labels the action as a model of right conduct.

outward show of integrity

Suggests that the action outwardly reflects strong moral principles.

FAQs

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

You can use "act of decency" to describe a specific action that demonstrates kindness, morality, or ethical behavior. For example: "Helping the elderly neighbor was a simple act of decency that made her day brighter".

What phrases are similar to "act of decency"?

Similar phrases include "gesture of goodwill", "demonstration of compassion", or "display of kindness", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe routine politeness as an "act of decency"?

While routine politeness is valuable, "act of decency" is best reserved for actions that go beyond the ordinary and reflect a significant moral or ethical dimension. Consider using "courtesy" or "politeness" for everyday interactions.

What is the difference between an "act of decency" and an "act of integrity"?

An "act of decency" generally refers to showing kindness and respect towards others, while an "act of integrity" involves upholding moral principles and honesty, even when it's difficult. While related, integrity emphasizes adherence to values.