minimum of decorum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "minimum of decorum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where only the least amount of proper behavior or etiquette is expected or observed. Example: "During the heated debate, the participants maintained a minimum of decorum, despite their strong disagreements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

They also enable people who are not fully virtuous to behave with a minimum of decorum and decency (162 3), and help all of us cut through the "veil of self-delusion" (158) by which we misrepresent our situations to ourselves.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Though Montebello may never give Augusta National a run for its money, Mr. Perlman said a minimum amount of decorum was still required.

The New York Times

She and Christine wage a stealthy war, each trying to undermine the other while maintaining at least a minimum of professional decorum.

The New York Times

A bit of decorum.

The New Yorker

A sense of decorum.

The New York Times

"That offends certain British ideas of decorum".

The New Yorker

"The rules of decorum have fallen apart.

The New Yorker

Generally, he displays a sailor's sense of decorum.

The New York Times - Books

The Democratic-run Assembly looks, in contrast, like a model of decorum.

The New York Times

Some breaches of decorum are easier to rectify than others.

The New Yorker

But middle-class rules of decorum forbid this.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "minimum of decorum" when you want to emphasize that only the most basic level of polite behavior is expected or observed. It's particularly useful in situations where tension or disagreement is present.

Common error

Avoid using "minimum of decorum" in highly formal or celebratory contexts where a greater degree of politeness and elegance is expected. Opt for phrases like "utmost respect" or "highest standards of etiquette" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minimum of decorum" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as an object or complement in a sentence. According to Ludwig, it's used to describe the least acceptable level of proper behavior or etiquette.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "minimum of decorum" is a grammatically correct expression used to denote the lowest acceptable level of polite behavior, as confirmed by Ludwig. While not frequently used, it is appropriate in contexts where basic politeness is expected, especially amidst tension or disagreement. It's best suited for neutral or professional settings and should be avoided in highly formal occasions where more elevated etiquette is required. Ludwig indicates that alternative expressions include "basic level of etiquette" or "slightest semblance of respect", which may be more fitting depending on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basic level of etiquette

Replaces "decorum" with "etiquette" and "minimum" with "basic", focusing on formal social behavior.

least amount of politeness

Substitutes "decorum" with "politeness", emphasizing courteous behavior.

smallest degree of propriety

Uses "propriety" instead of "decorum", highlighting adherence to accepted standards of behavior.

bare minimum of civility

Replaces "decorum" with "civility", stressing basic courtesy and respect in interactions.

slightest semblance of respect

Emphasizes the outward appearance of respect, even if insincere.

token gesture of formality

Highlights that the action is merely a symbolic indication of formality.

nominal level of good behavior

Focuses on conduct, replacing "decorum" with "good behavior" and "minimum" with "nominal".

rudimentary level of protocol

Emphasizes adherence to established procedures and rules of conduct.

a touch of class

This is more idiomatic and refers to a small amount of elegant behavior.

a hint of respectability

Suggests a slight indication of being worthy of esteem or honor.

FAQs

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

You can use "minimum of decorum" to describe situations where only the least amount of proper behavior is expected or observed. For example: "Despite the heated argument, they maintained a "minimum of decorum"."

What's a more formal alternative to "minimum of decorum"?

For formal situations, consider using phrases like "basic level of etiquette" or "slightest semblance of respect" for increased respectfulness.

What's the difference between "minimum of decorum" and "utmost respect"?

"Minimum of decorum" implies the lowest acceptable level of politeness, whereas "utmost respect" suggests the highest degree of reverence and consideration.

When is it appropriate to use "minimum of decorum"?

It's appropriate when describing situations where tension exists, and you're highlighting the fact that even in those circumstances, some level of polite behavior is maintained. It can be less appropriate in celebratory or highly formal events.