gesture of decency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gesture of decency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that demonstrates kindness, respect, or moral integrity towards others. Example: "Offering to help a stranger in need is a simple yet powerful gesture of decency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The added material is nothing special, a few moments at the beginning of their voyage, but their companionship, and the resigned dignity of Hall in particular, feels like the last gesture of decency — even of pleasure, caught on the wing — before they get fouled up in barbarism.

The New Yorker

And then everyone could go off to attack the shrimp, while pleading Lewis's case for a favorable historical judgment against the likes of Butkus and L. T. That's all it usually takes, a token effort, a gesture of decency, because most people have already come to the grudging conclusion that contemporary professional sports are not about family values, or viewing.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It's impossible not to use the obvious, yet appropriate pun for thanks of this remarkable gesture of kind-hearted decency: the price was right.

Huffington Post

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

The New Yorker

Thresholds of decency?

The Guardian - Opinion

You offenders of decency.

The Guardian - Sport

This insidious note of decency depresses us.

The New Yorker

The Legion of Decency rated the films.

The New York Times

That is a matter of decency.

Independent

Failures of decency closer to home.

The New Yorker

This offends ordinary Americans' sense of decency.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gesture of decency" to describe actions that not only adhere to basic moral standards but also exhibit a degree of thoughtfulness and empathy. It's most effective when the action goes beyond the expected.

Common error

Avoid using "gesture of decency" to describe mundane acts or actions that are simply polite. This phrase carries a weight of moral significance and should be reserved for situations where the action demonstrates a clear commitment to ethical principles or human kindness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gesture of decency" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific action or behavior characterized by moral integrity and consideration for others. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academic

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gesture of decency" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe actions that embody moral integrity and respect. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While relatively rare in overall usage, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, highlighting its role in public discourse. Alternatives like "act of kindness" or "show of compassion" offer similar meanings with slight differences in emphasis. Remember to reserve this phrase for situations where an action truly transcends basic politeness, demonstrating a commitment to ethical principles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act of kindness

Focuses on the kindness aspect, highlighting the benevolent nature of the action.

show of compassion

Emphasizes the compassionate aspect, highlighting empathy and concern for others.

display of integrity

Highlights the moral uprightness and honesty demonstrated by the action.

expression of goodwill

Stresses the positive intentions and friendly attitude conveyed by the action.

demonstration of respect

Focuses on the respectful nature, highlighting the esteem shown to others.

token of goodwill

Implies a symbolic act, representing positive intentions and friendly attitude.

sign of respect

Highlights the action as an indication of esteem or regard for someone or something.

moral gesture

Emphasizes the ethical and principled nature of the action.

ethical deed

Focuses on the rightfulness and moral correctness of the action.

honorable action

Highlights the action's nobility and adherence to moral principles.

FAQs

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

You can use "gesture of decency" to describe an action that shows kindness, respect, or moral integrity. For example: "Offering help to someone in need is often seen as a "gesture of decency".

What are some alternatives to "gesture of decency"?

Alternatives include "act of kindness", "show of compassion", or "expression of goodwill", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a gesture of decency" or "an act of decency"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct. "Gesture of decency" emphasizes the symbolic nature of the action, while "act of decency" highlights the action itself.

What distinguishes "gesture of decency" from a simple act of politeness?

A "gesture of decency" implies a moral dimension that goes beyond mere politeness. It suggests an action rooted in ethical principles and a genuine concern for others, unlike simple courtesy.