have some dignity

USAGE SUMMARY

"have some dignity" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression in written English.
You can use "have some dignity" to express disapproval or criticism towards someone's behavior or actions. It conveys the idea of expecting the person to act with more self-respect and honor. Example: "Your behavior at the party last night was disgraceful. Have some dignity and learn to control yourself in public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

"We have some dignity.

The New Yorker

Have some dignity, damn it".

The New Yorker

I just wanted to turn my back on the vulgarity of what was said and printed… I just decided to have some dignity afterward and be quiet".

The Guardian - Film

"I want to have some dignity in my life, and now I have found a person that I can live with on a dignified basis and on a permanent basis, who won't compromise me in my professional life," Candy tells one of the gay men who live upstairs, and who later finds him nearly kicked to death by Karl.

The New Yorker

(And you'll get your name in Bold when you earn it, sister! Have some dignity! Get on a reality show! Eat cow eyes!) In the gang of celebs at the party were KELLY ROWLAND, JAMIE-LYNN SIGLER, VANESSA CARLTON, CAROLINE RHEA and EVAN HANDLER.

The New York Times

With a mother who disdains her very existence, it comes as no surprise when Bride tells a lie that sends an innocent woman to prison just so her mother might see her, claim her, love her – so she might have some dignity of her own.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

It goes back to a time when people had some dignity.

The New York Times

Although he is the enemy, he has some dignity in his position -- a little like Khomeini.

The New York Times - Magazine

But ever since Muhammad Ali put the mouth in boxing, he and most of the big-name boxers had some dignity.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Flick said she helped these singers' careers by "giving them songs that made them feel like they had some dignity".

The New York Times - Arts

LBL has some dignity left.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have some dignity" when you want to gently but firmly suggest that someone's actions are beneath them or lack self-respect. It's a versatile phrase suitable for a range of situations, from correcting minor social faux pas to addressing more serious lapses in judgment.

Common error

Avoid using "have some dignity" in situations where direct commands or harsh criticisms are more appropriate. It's meant to be a subtle nudge toward better behavior, not a scathing rebuke.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have some dignity" functions as an imperative, urging or advising someone to exhibit more self-respect and decorum in their behavior. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in contexts ranging from social interactions to personal conduct, reinforcing its role as a call for dignified action.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "have some dignity" serves as a gentle but firm suggestion for someone to act with more self-respect and decorum. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and tone to ensure it's used appropriately, avoiding situations where direct criticism is needed. Related phrases like "show some decorum" and "act with respect" can offer similar meanings. Ultimately, "have some dignity" is a valuable phrase for promoting honorable behavior.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise self-respect

This highlights the importance of valuing and respecting oneself.

conduct yourself appropriately

This focuses on behaving in a manner that is suitable for the situation.

show some decorum

This suggests a need for more formal and polite behavior.

carry yourself with pride

This emphasizes the manner of one's behavior and self-presentation.

act with respect

This emphasizes treating oneself and others in a respectful manner.

hold your head high

This suggests behaving proudly and confidently, despite circumstances.

maintain your composure

This focuses on staying calm and self-controlled, especially in a difficult situation.

demonstrate some class

This urges someone to exhibit refined and elegant behavior.

keep your head up

This is more encouraging, suggesting resilience and not losing self-esteem.

try to keep it classy

This is a more casual way of asking someone to maintain a certain level of elegance and good taste.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to tell someone to "have some dignity"?

It's appropriate when someone is behaving in a way that lacks self-respect or is demeaning to themselves or others. It's a way to encourage more honorable behavior.

What does it mean to "have dignity"?

To "have dignity" means to conduct oneself with self-respect and composure, acting in a manner that is befitting of one's own value and worth.

Are there situations where telling someone to "have some dignity" could be considered rude?

Yes, if the situation calls for directness or if the person is already feeling vulnerable, telling them to "have some dignity" might come across as insensitive. Consider the context and your relationship with the person.

What are alternative phrases to "have some dignity" that convey a similar meaning?

Alternatives include "show some decorum", "act with respect", or "maintain your composure", depending on the specific context and desired tone.