matter of decorum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "matter of decorum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing issues related to etiquette, propriety, or social norms in a given situation. Example: "In a formal meeting, it's important to maintain a matter of decorum to ensure respectful communication among all participants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Little or no sauce, he said, was "a matter of decorum".

The New York Times

Could I please ask that when you are escorting your children, you take the time to dress appropriately in daywear that is suitable for the weather conditions?" From the text itself, you can't tell what her real objection is: "even" slippers suggests that the footwear crime is key, but if this were a matter of decorum, you'd think jimjams and slippers would be equally infra dig.

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet the accuser also had to pay a price: in order to have their case heard, Gernet states that they had to provide an offering to the judge as "a matter of decorum".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Teika seems not to have enjoyed the trip; his diary often records concern over his health and matters of decorum such as the proper clothes to wear.

Wikipedia

"It's an issue of decorum".

The New York Times

His lack of decorum may not matter in a reality-television host.

Los Angeles Times

This is partly a matter of his complete disregard for decorum: his satire is based at least as much in personal loathing as in moral vision.

The Guardian - Books

Ms. Burrows, who relishes her character's occasional slips of decorum, is so entertaining that it hardly matters if Ms. Franklin's play stops cold, rather than finding an ending.

The New York Times

Do not let anyone convince you that Trump's evils are matters of performance or personality or affect — that they can be overlooked, or that there is a mere violation of decorum underway.

The New Yorker

A bit of decorum.

The New Yorker

A sense of decorum.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using this phrase. While generally appropriate, it may sound overly formal in casual situations. In such instances, opt for simpler alternatives like "politeness" or "good manners".

Common error

Avoid using "matter of decorum" in casual or informal settings where simpler language would be more appropriate. Using formal language in an informal situation can make you sound pretentious or out of touch.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "matter of decorum" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes something that pertains to established social conventions or etiquette. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for use.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "matter of decorum" is a grammatically correct phrase that describes the importance of adhering to social norms and etiquette. Though deemed rare in occurrence, according to Ludwig's analysis, it's more prevalent in News & Media contexts than in academic ones. When writing, consider the audience and context, reserving this phrase for formal settings where emphasis on appropriate behavior is needed. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage, making it a valuable phrase to have in your vocabulary for formal communication. While alternatives like "issue of propriety" or "question of etiquette" may be used, "matter of decorum" retains a unique emphasis on the adherence to established social convention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

issue of propriety

Focuses on the correctness of behavior according to moral principles or social norms.

question of etiquette

Highlights the rules governing correct or polite behavior in society or among members of a profession.

point of protocol

Emphasizes adherence to established procedures or customs, especially in formal settings.

act of civility

Stresses polite and courteous behavior.

breach of etiquette

Indicates a violation of accepted social norms or polite behavior.

observance of convention

Highlights adherence to traditional practices or norms.

standard of conduct

Focuses on the expected behavior in a particular context.

formality requirement

Highlights that something is needed because it is prescribed by convention or law.

social grace

Highlights elegance or refinement of manner.

politeness expectation

Focuses on the anticipated behavior to be good-mannered.

FAQs

How can I use "matter of decorum" in a sentence?

You can use "matter of decorum" to describe situations where polite behavior is expected, such as, "In a formal dinner, maintaining a certain "matter of decorum" is crucial."

What is a more casual alternative to "matter of decorum"?

For less formal situations, consider using phrases like "good manners", "politeness", or "respectful behavior" instead of ""matter of decorum"".

Is "issue of decorum" interchangeable with "matter of decorum"?

While similar, "issue of decorum" often refers to a specific problem or concern related to etiquette, whereas ""matter of decorum"" more broadly describes a general need for polite or proper behavior.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "matter of decorum"?

Use ""matter of decorum"" when the context involves formal settings, professional environments, or situations where upholding social norms is essential. Avoid using it in casual conversations.