make decent use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make decent use" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the effective or appropriate utilization of resources, time, or opportunities. Example: "It's important to make decent use of the limited time we have to complete the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Thompson said he's been work- working there since 1942 & would like to see some people come back & make decent use of the place.

The New Yorker

The USP of Temple of Yog is something that a lot of Wii U games still don't do properly, and that's make decent use of the console's twin-screen setup.

Vice

Could you make decent use of any weapons you picked up?

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

But at least it demonstrates some gameplay variety, and makes decent use of the 3DS's attributes.

The Guardian - Tech

And he makes decent use of his guest singers, including a classically suave D'Angelo, an androgynous-sounding Raphael Saadiq, a sassy Amanda Diva and a coolly ethereal Norah Jones.

The New York Times

It makes decent use of the Wii U's GamePad something not all (even first-party) titles can claim to do delivering a really hands-on experience as you tap your finger, or the stylus, on the smaller screen to propel minuscule flower people at whatever target needs attacking.

Vice

Ostensibly a spin-off from a Super Mario 3D World minigame, this delightful puzzler is precisely what I want from the Wii U in 2015: an unmistakably Nintendo presentation that earns its Seal of Quality, and that makes decent use of the console's touchscreen GamePad.

Vice

I was athletically inclined, co-ordinated, so when I was figuring out how to survive and when I went to school – in America school is expensive and you have to pay for it – I figured out ways to make decent money, using my body.

The Guardian - Music

Good digital cameras can make decent reproductions using this method.

WikiHow

"Where I used to be able to employ a lot of people, now I have to do all the work myself and tell people, 'Sorry, I'm not hiring.' I used to make decent money.

The New York Times

I make decent money.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to express that something is being used adequately or reasonably well, use the phrase "make decent use". For instance, "The software helps to "make decent use" of available data, improving decision-making processes."

Common error

Avoid using "make decent use" when you really mean "optimize" or "maximize". "Decent" implies an acceptable level of utilization, not necessarily the highest possible level.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make decent use" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of utilizing something in a reasonably effective or appropriate manner. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes effective or appropriate utilization of resources, time, or opportunities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make decent use" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase that means to utilize something in a reasonably effective way. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and general writing. While it is generally neutral in tone, more formal settings might require more precise alternatives. Remember to use this phrase when you want to express that something is being used adequately, but not necessarily optimally. This guide provides insights into its usage, related phrases, and best practices to help you communicate effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make good use of

A more general and common alternative.

utilize effectively

Emphasizes the efficiency of use.

optimally utilize

Focuses on achieving the best possible usage.

leverage appropriately

Highlights strategic advantage gained through use.

put to good purpose

Highlights the positive intention and outcome of the use.

employ skillfully

Focuses on the ability or technique used.

harness efficiently

Indicates controlled and productive application.

capitalize on

Suggests taking full advantage of an opportunity.

profitably apply

Stresses the beneficial outcome of the use.

exploit effectively

Implies maximizing gain, possibly with a negative connotation.

FAQs

How can I "make decent use" of my time?

To "make decent use" of your time, prioritize tasks, allocate specific time blocks for each, and minimize distractions. Consider using time-management techniques like the Pomodoro method or the Eisenhower Matrix to enhance efficiency.

What does it mean to "make decent use" of resources?

To "make decent use" of resources implies utilizing them effectively and responsibly. This could involve minimizing waste, reusing materials, and optimizing processes to achieve the desired outcome without excessive consumption. Alternatives include "utilize effectively" or "employ skillfully".

Is "make decent use" formal or informal?

The phrase "make decent use" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for highly formal settings, consider more precise alternatives such as "utilize effectively" or "leverage appropriately".

What's a synonym for "make decent use"?

Synonyms for "make decent use" include "make good use of", "capitalize on", and "exploit effectively". The choice depends on the specific context and the degree of emphasis you want to place on the effectiveness or benefit of the usage.