decent area

USAGE SUMMARY

"decent area" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a place that is generally considered satisfactory, or to compare one place to a better one. For example, "This isn't the nicest part of town, but it's a decent area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Sergio Aguero's pass, while in a decent area, wasn't pinpoint in its accuracy.

Independent

Bresciano gets the ball in a decent area and crosses for Cahill but Kennedy seems to get in his way and the chance is gone.

The Guardian - Sport

Supt Whitmarsh said some parents have contacted police on the assumption that "we are providing a baby-sitting service", while others have asked for advice on whether their child is staying in a "decent" area of town.

Independent

Gregory Scotidas, an associate broker with Century 21 Milestone in Jamaica, said, "For a first-time buyer looking for a decent area with affordable prices, Queens Village is definitely in the ballpark".

The New York Times

Single-family houses "in a decent area" cluster in a range of $275,000 to $300,000, while two-family houses sell for $350,000 to $450,000, she said.

The New York Times

"We couldn't afford a decent sized family home in a decent area [in London]," she tells me.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

"Families deserve to live in safe, decent areas, free of crime and free of danger, and that's not there right now," Mr. Lovett said.

The New York Times

"Little condos in decent areas are going from $429,000 to $1 million," said Jo Ann Lo Duca, of HCH Realty in Harvey Cedars, on the northern end of Long Beach Island.

The New York Times

Those involved in leasing retail space have seen some increased activity based on "pent-up demand for decent areas," according to Brian Moss, the vice president of the Shopping Center Realty Corporation in Greenwich, Conn., which handles the leasing and property management of retail space.

The New York Times

"We got ourselves into some decent areas but were not convincing in the final third".

BBC

Both Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia are getting in decent areas but they are not putting balls into the area with any real quality.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing real estate, use "decent area" to indicate a location that is safe and has acceptable amenities, which implies it's a good place to live or invest in.

Common error

Avoid using "decent area" as a vague substitute for specific qualities. Instead of simply stating an area is "decent", elaborate on what makes it so, such as its low crime rate, good schools, or proximity to amenities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decent area" functions primarily as a descriptive phrase, modifying a noun. It characterizes an "area" as being satisfactory or acceptable according to certain standards. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "decent area" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a location that meets a basic level of acceptability or satisfaction. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, noting its frequent use in describing places in a generally satisfactory manner. While the phrase is versatile, it's often more impactful when paired with specific details about the area's qualities, such as safety or available amenities. Related phrases like "respectable neighborhood" and "habitable zone" can provide similar meanings, but choosing the most precise term enhances clarity. Overall, "decent area" is a useful phrase, particularly in news, media, and real estate contexts, but should be used judiciously to avoid vagueness and enhance the communicative impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

respectable neighborhood

Replaces "area" with a term that emphasizes social standing and safety.

acceptable location

Focuses on the adequacy or permissibility of the place.

satisfactory region

Highlights the fulfillment of certain requirements or expectations for the area.

suitable spot

Emphasizes the appropriateness for a specific purpose or activity.

reasonable district

Suggests the area is fair and not excessively problematic.

habitable zone

Highlights the livability and safety of the place.

fair locality

Replaces 'area' with a more formal synonym and 'decent' with 'fair'.

passable sector

Implies the area meets a minimum standard for acceptance.

tolerable vicinity

Suggests the area is bearable despite potential drawbacks.

manageable territory

Focuses on the ease with which the area can be handled or controlled.

FAQs

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

You might say, "The family was looking for a house in a "respectable neighborhood"" or "This part of town is a "habitable zone", even if it's not the fanciest."

What's a less vague alternative to "decent area"?

Consider being more specific, such as using phrases like "safe neighborhood", "family-friendly area", or "area with good schools" depending on what you want to emphasize. These alternatives offer greater clarity than just "decent area".

Is "decent area" subjective, and how can I make it more objective?

Yes, "decent area" can be subjective. To make it more objective, provide specific criteria, such as crime statistics, school ratings, or average income levels. For example, "The area boasts a low crime rate and high-performing schools, making it a "suitable spot" for families."

What are some factors that contribute to an area being considered "decent"?

Factors can include low crime rates, good schools, access to amenities like parks and shops, well-maintained infrastructure, and a sense of community. These elements collectively create a desirable and "acceptable location".