bit of decency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bit of decency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small amount of kindness or moral behavior expected from someone in a given situation. Example: "All I ask is for a bit of decency in how we treat each other during this difficult time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Mom, slightly less miserable and abusive when drunk — and therefore, perhaps luckily for Mia, rarely sober — has brought home a bit of decency as well as fun.

The New York Times

It brought a lambasting in the columns of the Huffington Post from the current minister for social exclusion, Marie-Arlette Carlotti, who wrote a column entitled "Madame Kosciusko-Morizet, a bit of decency!".

The Guardian

This Just Cavalli collection was a collection of "Scots 'n' roll": mini-kilts, in bright plaid or the designer's signature animal print, and with jabots of ruffles just providing a bit of decency across the chest when blouses were more or less transparent.

The New York Times

A host could greet you by name, usher you to a favored table or dispense some tiny favor or bit of decency and you could imagine yourself part of an intimate club, a player in the grand show of Manhattan night life.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

She dreamed of Negro women appearing as flickering images in powerfully lighted boxes that could be seen in sitting rooms far distant, and colored men dressed in garish costumes like children, playing odd sporting games and bragging like drunkards — every bit of pride, decency and morality squeezed clean out of them".

The New York Times - Books

Those liquid, burden-of-decency basset-hound eyes.

The New Yorker

This is a circumstance that would simply be impossible in a country with the slightest bit of rule of law or the decency to look after its most vulnerable citizens.

The Guardian - Opinion

If I was trying to take the sense of decency out of a place I'd call it something that sounded a bit like the word "minge" was being sick.

Vice

You offenders of decency.

The Guardian - Sport

Thresholds of decency?

The Guardian - Opinion

This insidious note of decency depresses us.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bit of decency", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended degree of morality or respectability. Overuse can dilute its impact; reserve it for situations where a minimal standard of good behavior is expected.

Common error

Avoid using "bit of decency" when a situation calls for substantial moral action. This phrase implies a minimal acceptable standard, not exemplary behavior. For situations requiring significant ethical conduct, consider phrases like "high moral ground" or "unwavering integrity."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bit of decency" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. Examples show it describing a small amount of moral or ethical behavior.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "bit of decency" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to express a desire for a minimal level of moral or respectable behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its usage in various contexts, mainly within news and media. It functions to set a baseline of expected conduct and is best suited for neutral to slightly informal communication. Though not exceedingly common, it effectively conveys the need for at least some measure of ethical behavior in relevant scenarios. While other options exist to alter the expression's nuance, its core utility lies in its plea for basic respect and morality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

modicum of civility

Underscores politeness and courteous behavior in social interactions, related to but not synonymous with decency.

touch of morality

Focuses on the ethical aspect, emphasizing a small degree of moral behavior instead of general decency.

shred of respectability

Highlights the aspect of public image and being seen as respectable, rather than inherent decency.

degree of fairness

Highlights impartiality and just treatment, rather than overall decent conduct.

hint of propriety

Emphasizes adherence to social norms and conventions, differing from simple decency.

measure of consideration

Focuses on thoughtfulness and attentiveness to others' needs, diverging from general decency.

iota of kindness

Shifts the focus to compassionate behavior, suggesting a small measure of benevolent action.

level of compassion

Emphasizes empathy and concern for others, offering a more emotionally charged alternative.

element of integrity

Centers on the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles, a specific component of decency.

semblance of goodwill

Highlights an outward appearance of kindness or benevolence, potentially lacking genuine decency.

FAQs

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

You can use "bit of decency" to express a hope for minimal good behavior, as in, "All I ask for is a "bit of decency" when discussing sensitive topics."

What's the difference between ""bit of decency"" and "sense of decency"?

"Bit of decency" implies a small amount of good behavior, whereas "sense of decency" refers to one's overall understanding and adherence to moral principles.

What can I say instead of ""bit of decency""?

Alternatives include "touch of morality", "modicum of civility", or "shred of respectability", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "bit of decency" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "bit of decency" might be considered too informal for some formal contexts. In such cases, consider alternatives like "degree of fairness" or "measure of consideration".