lack of decency

USAGE SUMMARY

"lack of decency" is a correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe behavior or actions that are considered rude, inappropriate, or morally wrong. Example: The politician's constant lies and attacks on his opponents show a complete lack of decency.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

He is correct that there isn't, and shouldn't be, criminal liability for a lack of "decency".

The New Yorker

How Scotland fans, who hastened his departure from the international scene, might live to rue their crude lack of decency.

The Guardian - Sport

Officials had also pulled the plug on The Boys, a British punk group (a lack of "decency" was said to be its problem).

The Economist

They are shocked and disgusted by his views and dismiss him, blaming his expatriation for his "lack of decency and common sense".

The New Yorker

Characterising Trump as "a man whose vision is limited to little beyond himself", Springsteen said the Republican nominee held a "profound lack of decency that would allow him to prioritise his own interests and ego before American democracy itself".

The Guardian

With unthinkable lack of decency, and brilliant journalistic flair, Capote blags his way into the funeral parlour where the shooting victims are in their coffins, and actually heaves up the lids to look at the shattered faces which are swathed in a dull white material.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

That's a lack of human decency.

The Guardian - Opinion

During his stint as prime minister, Mr Netanyahu was damned for lack of probity, decency and much else besides.

The Economist

Apologizing for his lack of "cyber decency," Mr. Lessig told his respondents that if they wrote back, his e-mail program would mark their missives for special attention, but that he still might not make good on his "debt".

The New York Times

Even so, it's obvious he isn't dying from a lack of human decency.

Huffington Post

But we don't live in a sane or rational world; we live in a stinking, bubbling bog of meanness and misery, a viscous and never-ending sludge leaking out from our own failed imaginations and our fundamental lack of human decency.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "lack of decency", be specific about the actions or behaviors that demonstrate this lack. Providing concrete examples strengthens your argument and makes your point more persuasive.

Common error

Avoid using "lack of decency" as a generic insult in emotionally charged arguments. This weakens your credibility. Instead, clearly and calmly illustrate what actions constitute the lack of decency to create a more persuasive argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of decency" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the absence of morally acceptable behavior or standards. Ludwig AI also confirms it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of decency" is a valid and commonly used expression to describe actions or behaviors deemed morally or socially unacceptable. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase serves to express disapproval and highlight ethical shortcomings. While alternatives such as "absence of propriety" or "rudeness" exist, "lack of decency" specifically points to a deficiency in moral standards. To use the phrase effectively, it's best to provide specific examples and avoid overusing it in emotionally charged situations. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various discussions, particularly when addressing ethical issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absence of propriety

Focuses on the absence of socially accepted standards of behavior.

want of decorum

Highlights the deficiency in dignified behavior and etiquette.

rudeness

Simplifies the concept to a general state of impolite behavior.

disrespectfulness

Emphasizes the absence of respect towards others.

impropriety

Indicates behavior that is inappropriate and often morally questionable.

bad manners

Refers to a lack of polite social behavior.

lack of civility

Highlights the absence of politeness and courteous behavior.

tastelessness

Focuses on actions that are offensive or crude due to a lack of aesthetic or moral judgment.

moral deficiency

Emphasizes the lack of moral qualities or virtues.

ethical bankruptcy

Highlights a complete absence of ethical principles and moral integrity.

FAQs

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

You can use "lack of decency" to describe actions or behaviors that are considered rude, inappropriate, or morally wrong. For instance, "The politician's constant lies demonstrated a distinct "lack of decency"".

What are some alternatives to "lack of decency"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "absence of propriety", "rudeness", or "disrespectfulness".

Is it better to say "lack of decency" or "absence of decency"?

"Lack of decency" and "absence of decency" are largely interchangeable, but "lack of decency" is more commonly used. "Absence of decency" may sound slightly more formal or clinical.

What distinguishes a "lack of decency" from a "lack of respect"?

While related, "lack of decency" often refers to broader social or moral standards, whereas "lack of respect" specifically indicates a failure to show consideration or regard for someone or something. One could show a "lack of respect" without necessarily being indecent, and vice versa.