decent time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decent time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a reasonable or acceptable amount of time for an activity or event. Example: "We should allow a decent time for everyone to arrive before starting the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But we were making decent time.

The New Yorker

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

The New Yorker

Now is a decent time for the Mercurys to correct that.

The Guardian - Music

If I've got decent time between a soundcheck and a gig, I'll do 15, sometimes 18.

The Guardian - Music

Kelly does, as Kosminsky imagined, come across like a character from a more decent time.

The Guardian

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

The New York Times

But I've had a pretty decent time with it so far".

The Guardian - Music

Spence was a couple of seconds off her best but posted a decent time of 2 16.51, climbing to ninth.

Independent

"I would like to run a decent time but for me the most important thing is winning medals," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

There's some decent time-killing content here.

TechCrunch

"You saw some cars doing decent times.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to sleep schedules, use "decent time" to suggest a bedtime that allows for adequate rest and aligns with healthy habits. This implies a balanced and responsible lifestyle.

Common error

Avoid using "decent time" when you mean 'significant amount of time' if the situation requires urgency or immediate action. "Decent" suggests adequacy, not exceptional speed or efficiency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decent time" functions primarily as an adjective-noun combination, modifying a noun to indicate an acceptable or satisfactory duration, moment, or experience. Ludwig shows numerous examples where it describes the quality of time spent or the appropriateness of a time for an activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

12%

Sports

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "decent time" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that refers to a reasonable or acceptable amount of time, or a moderately enjoyable experience. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. It’s most frequently found in news and media contexts, and while it can be used in both formal and informal settings, it leans towards a neutral register. Remember to consider the connotation of adequacy rather than exceptional quality when using this phrase. Alternatives such as "reasonable time" or "suitable time" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. It's important to note that while having a "decent time" implies a positive experience, it is less enthusiastic than having a "good time". The phrase is valued for its versatility and clarity in everyday communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonable timeframe

Focuses on the duration aspect, suggesting a period that is fair and appropriate.

convenient time

Suggests the time is easy and practical for someone.

suitable moment

Emphasizes the appropriateness of the time for a particular action or event.

sufficient duration

Focuses on having enough time to complete a task or activity.

opportune moment

Highlights the advantageous nature of the timing.

favorable period

Emphasizes that the time is advantageous or beneficial.

adequate opportunity

Highlights the chance provided by the timing.

appropriate interval

Suggests a suitable gap between events or actions.

respectable hour

Implies the time is socially acceptable or considerate.

tolerable duration

Focuses on the acceptability of a duration, even if not ideal.

FAQs

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

You can use "decent time" to describe a reasonable amount of time allotted for something, or a socially acceptable hour for an activity. For example, "We should leave at a "decent time" to avoid traffic" or "She gets to bed at a "decent time" every night".

What is a good alternative to "decent time"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "decent time" include "reasonable time", "suitable time", or "appropriate time". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What does it mean to have a "decent time"?

To have a "decent time" generally means to have an enjoyable or satisfactory experience. It implies that the time spent was reasonably pleasant and worthwhile.

Is "decent time" the same as "good time"?

While both phrases indicate a positive experience, "good time" often implies a more exciting or thrilling experience, whereas "decent time" suggests a more moderate level of enjoyment or satisfaction. A "good time" is more enthusiastic than a "decent time".