bounds of decorum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bounds of decorum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the limits or standards of acceptable behavior in a particular context or situation. Example: "His comments during the meeting were well beyond the bounds of decorum, leaving many attendees uncomfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

What she needed was a way to do this without transgressing the bounds of decorum, of propriety, of good taste, of sound judgment, fairness, and equanimity.

The New Yorker

The foreign minister, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, said it had breached the bounds of decorum and was a "discredit" to Mr. Lantos.

The New York Times

Not even those who typeset a new edition of Martial are spared the rod: "The printers have indulged immoderately in their favourite sport of dropping letters on the floor and then leaving them to lie there or else putting them back in wrong places; and at the top of p. 113 of the text their merriment transgresses the bounds of decorum".

The New Yorker

Aidan Dunne, for example, reviewing the exhibition in Dublin in 2007, recognised how a single blonde model, "unmistakably" herself, in 1966 led Freud to push "the bounds of decorum in terms of mainstream depictions of the human body considered not as a generic type but as, to use his own term, a 'naked portrait'".

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

For one thing, the skirmish for control has eroded the sense of decorum in the tradition-bound upper house.

The New York Times

A bit of decorum.

The New Yorker

A sense of decorum.

The New York Times

"That offends certain British ideas of decorum".

The New Yorker

"The rules of decorum have fallen apart.

The New Yorker

Generally, he displays a sailor's sense of decorum.

The New York Times - Books

The Democratic-run Assembly looks, in contrast, like a model of decorum.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "bounds of decorum", consider the specific social or professional context to ensure your assessment of appropriate behavior is accurate and relevant.

Common error

Avoid applying personal opinions of what is acceptable without considering the established norms of the environment. Actions might fall within your "bounds of decorum" but violate those of a professional setting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bounds of decorum" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or verb to describe the limits of acceptable behavior. The examples provided by Ludwig AI illustrate its use in describing actions that either adhere to or violate these limits.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bounds of decorum" is a noun phrase used to define the limits of acceptable behavior within specific contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears predominantly in news and media sources, indicating a neutral to formal register. It serves to evaluate conduct against established norms, making it useful in analytical and critical discussions. Consider the specific context when applying this phrase to ensure accurate assessment of appropriateness. Related phrases, such as "limits of propriety", offer nuanced alternatives depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limits of propriety

Focuses on the aspect of conforming to conventionally accepted standards of behavior or morals.

confines of good taste

Highlights the element of aesthetic judgment and what is considered socially acceptable in expression or presentation.

boundaries of etiquette

Specifically refers to the formal rules of correct or polite behavior in society.

standards of decency

Emphasizes moral behavior and what a society considers acceptable and respectful.

acceptable conduct

Refers to behavior that is considered appropriate in a given social setting.

rules of civility

Stresses the importance of politeness and respect in interactions.

norms of behavior

Indicates typical patterns of actions that are considered socially acceptable.

customary politeness

Underscores adherence to traditional forms of courteous behavior.

expectations of formality

Highlights anticipated adherence to established protocols and conventions.

proper etiquette

Similar to 'boundaries of etiquette', but emphasizes the quality of being appropriate.

FAQs

How can I use "bounds of decorum" in a sentence?

You can use "bounds of decorum" to describe actions or behaviors that exceed what is considered acceptable or appropriate in a specific context. For instance, "His outburst went beyond the "bounds of decorum" at the formal dinner".

What is a synonym for "bounds of decorum"?

Synonyms for "bounds of decorum" include "limits of propriety", "confines of good taste", or "boundaries of etiquette". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to transgress the "bounds of decorum"?

To transgress the "bounds of decorum" means to violate or go beyond the accepted standards of behavior or politeness in a particular situation. It implies acting in a way that is considered inappropriate or offensive.

How does "bounds of decorum" differ from "rules of etiquette"?

"Rules of etiquette" are specific guidelines for polite behavior, while "bounds of decorum" is a broader term referring to the general limits of what is considered acceptable or appropriate. Etiquette provides the rules; decorum defines the overall sense of what's fitting.