decent technique

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decent technique" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a skill or method that is satisfactory or acceptable in quality. Example: "Her performance was impressive, showcasing a decent technique that impressed the judges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

ROAST a good chicken with decent technique and the results will always exceed the level of effort.

The New York Times

Although a number of hockey players include martial arts in their cross-training now, adding lessons in Muay Thai to improve their balance on skates or MMA to keep their reflexes sharp, few manage to display anything in the way of halfway decent technique.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

She is tall and pretty in a ripe-peach sort of way, and as far as I could tell she had a decent flamenco technique.

The New York Times - Arts

Lowered expectations are generally a decent survival technique, though it's vital to recognise when everyday crapness becomes untenable: a disappointing course, crushing mental health or hunger for life beyond nursing off Wetherspoons' midweek drinks deals at 9am lectures.

The Guardian

An optimization approach with the Gradient Decent Projection technique is proposed to calculate the predictions of the control actions.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

I had always felt that I had a decent cast, if imperfect technique.

The New York Times - Sports

A tidy player with a decent serve and sound technique on both wings, Taylor was not overawed in her first Wimbledon quarter-final but it was soon obvious she was not 100%.

The Guardian - Sport

There is a range of actions countries can take to combat terrorism by improving the professionalism of law enforcement, from assuring decent wages to improving techniques for surveillance, investigation, and evidence gathering.

Huffington Post

"I've actually seen this technique used a decent amount of times and knew it was used as the last line of defense for someone hacking your camera".

Huffington Post

By fusing rationalist design principles with modern materials and construction techniques, they built decent, affordable housing for 10 percent of the city's population within five years.

The New York Times - Arts

The Australian coach, who has recruited Rory Teague from England Under-20s to work as a part-time skills coach and invited judo's Kate Howey and JP Bell to help the squad's mauling techniques, had another decent quip lined up when asked whether he might consider staying on with England after 2019.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a skill, use "decent technique" to imply a satisfactory level of competence, without suggesting exceptional expertise. For instance, "He showed a decent technique in his presentation, effectively conveying the main points."

Common error

Avoid using "decent technique" when the situation demands exceptional skill. If the skill is truly remarkable, opt for stronger descriptors like "masterful technique" or "exceptional ability".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decent technique" functions primarily as a descriptor, modifying a noun (technique) to indicate a level of competence or skill that is satisfactory but not necessarily exceptional. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "decent technique" is a phrase used to describe a skill or method that is satisfactory but not exceptional. It's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, though Ludwig AI examples show it's relatively rare. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the actual skill level being described; avoid overstating competence. Alternatives such as "adequate skill" or "satisfactory method" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. It appears most often in "News & Media" and "Science" contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adequate skill

Focuses on the level of skill being sufficient, implying a satisfactory but not exceptional ability.

satisfactory method

Emphasizes that the method used meets the required standards or expectations.

competent approach

Highlights the ability to handle a task effectively, implying a level of proficiency.

reasonable skill

Suggests the level of skill is within acceptable limits, implying a moderate level of ability.

passable method

Indicates the method is just good enough to achieve the desired outcome, with a hint of barely sufficient.

serviceable technique

Implies the technique is functional and can be used to achieve a basic level of performance.

workmanlike ability

Conveys a competent but not necessarily inspired level of skill or performance.

capable procedure

Focuses on the procedure being effective and able to produce the intended results.

fair proficiency

Highlights a moderate level of expertise, neither exceptional nor inadequate.

tolerable skill

Suggests the skill level is acceptable, though possibly not ideal or impressive.

FAQs

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

You can use "decent technique" to describe a skill or method that is satisfactory or acceptable in quality. For example: "Her performance was impressive, showcasing a decent technique that impressed the judges."

What are some alternatives to saying "decent technique"?

Alternatives to "decent technique" include "adequate skill", "satisfactory method", or "competent approach", depending on the context.

Is "decent technique" formal or informal?

"Decent technique" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, you might prefer alternatives such as "adequate skill" or "satisfactory method".

When is it appropriate to use "decent technique" versus "excellent technique"?

Use "decent technique" when the skill level is satisfactory but not exceptional. Use "excellent technique" when the skill level is outstanding and demonstrates mastery.