at a decent time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a decent time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a time that is considered reasonable or appropriate for an event or action. Example: "Let's schedule the meeting at a decent time so everyone can attend without feeling rushed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

She suggested the mother see that her daughter get to bed at a decent time.

The New Yorker

"With McDonald's, there will be no liquor served, and we will close at a decent time.

The New York Times

Last time, by the end, there were more than 150 people in the queue, so I wanted to get here at a decent time.

The Guardian - Music

"All we want is for rinks to allocate one hour per week at a decent time, and we'll do business with them," said Jon Schwartz, a founder of the group and a coach of special-needs players.

The New York Times - Sports

But male role models who take time off with their children, leave the office at a decent time, promote women and spread the word with male colleagues matter perhaps even more.

The New York Times

"I think we caught them at a decent time, when they've put a lot of energy in against Preston the other night.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

I could train for it and put down a decent time, but at the end of the day I'm not a 400m Olympic runner, I'm a 100m Paralympic runner," he says.

The Guardian - Sport

From Barcelona and Madrid to Bernie Sanders and Jeremy Corbyn, leftist outsider candidates seem to be having a decent time with voters at the moment.

Vice

They need something to change sooner rather than later". From Barcelona and Madrid to Bernie Sanders and Jeremy Corbyn, leftist outsider candidates seem to be having a decent time with voters at the moment.

Vice

Conductor William Christie brings the score dazzlingly to life, moving at a decent clip through buoyant, triple-time dances and aching laments.

The Guardian

The firm, which offers bachelor's and master's degree programs at 76 campuses and learning centers, has no debt and trades at a decent 16 times trailing earnings.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When scheduling events or activities, use "at a decent time" to convey consideration for people's schedules and preferences. It suggests a time that is neither too early nor too late, showing respect for their time and commitments.

Common error

Avoid using "at a decent time" when you mean simply adequate or acceptable. "Decent" implies a level of respect and consideration, not just meeting the bare minimum. For instance, instead of "The food was at a decent time", use "The food arrived promptly" to reflect timeliness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a decent time" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when an action occurs. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, adding detail to the timing of an event or activity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a decent time" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adverbial phrase that specifies a considerate or convenient timing. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is correct in written English. The phrase finds frequent application in news and media, as well as in wiki contexts, maintaining a neutral to informal register. While its formal usage is less common, the phrase effectively serves to coordinate schedules with thoughtfulness and respect. Alternatives include "at a reasonable hour", and "at a convenient time".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a reasonable hour

Specifies a time that is not too early or too late, emphasizing convenience.

at a suitable moment

Focuses on the appropriateness of the occasion or circumstances.

at an appropriate hour

Similar to a reasonable hour, but slightly more formal.

at a convenient time

Highlights the ease and accessibility of the timing.

at a fitting moment

Implies the time is well-matched to the event or action.

at a timely juncture

More formal, suggesting the time is particularly opportune.

at a proper time

Indicates adherence to standards of correctness or etiquette.

at a strategic moment

Emphasizes the calculated advantage of the timing.

at a favorable time

Suggests the timing offers an advantage or benefit.

at a respectable hour

Highlights the social acceptability of the timing.

FAQs

What does "at a decent time" mean?

The phrase "at a decent time" means at a time that is considered reasonable, appropriate, or socially acceptable. It implies consideration for other people's schedules and preferences.

How can I use "at a decent time" in a sentence?

You can use "at a decent time" when you're suggesting a time for an event, activity, or task that is convenient and not too early or late. For example: "Let's schedule the meeting "at a decent time" so everyone can attend without feeling rushed."

What are some alternatives to saying "at a decent time"?

Some alternatives to "at a decent time" include "at a reasonable hour", "at a convenient time", or "at an appropriate time". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it more formal to say "at a reasonable hour" or "at a decent time"?

At a reasonable hour is slightly more formal than "at a decent time". "At a decent time" is generally suitable for most everyday situations, while "at a reasonable hour" might be preferred in more formal settings.