modicum of decency

USAGE SUMMARY

"modicum of decency" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to express disappointment that someone has acted in an inexcusable way. For example: "He has violated the trust of his colleagues with his actions, showing a modicum of decency would have been appreciated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Or should we hold tight to the modicum of decency in all of us?

The Guardian

He said of Blatter's presidency, "If he has a modicum of decency, he will resign in the next few days".

Independent

In France, at the time of Louis XIV, anyone who was dressed with a modicum of decency could stroll into Versailles and lounge about the Grand Canal or watch the king dine.

The New York Times - Style

Given what the N-word means not just in US history, but to race relations across the world, a modicum of decency should censure any impulse to utter it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Notwithstanding the belated success of General Petraeus's 2007 troop surge and the concurrent Sunni Awakening, which permitted us to carry out our troop withdrawal with a modicum of decency, the Iraq war represents a geostrategic catastrophe of colossal proportions for the U.S., not to mention a humanitarian catastrophe for Iraqis.

The New Yorker

What can come to seem most affecting isn't a hotshot P.I. parceling out the witty comebacks, but a character we like (often one with some wear on him) simply trying to get through life with a modicum of decency and self-respect.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The torch America carries is one of decency and hope.

The New York Times

I'm just asking for a modicum of human decency.

HuffPost

Yet if they had simply talked to people and shown a modicum of human decency, the anger would never have boiled.

HuffPost

Have you no sense of decency, sir, at long last?

Wikipedia

Furthermore, these young men were, apparently, brought up and protected by adults who did not feel it necessary to teach them any modicum of respect for the decency and rights of a woman to not be raped and used and defiled.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "modicum of decency", ensure the context clearly demonstrates a lack of basic ethical or moral behavior. The phrase is most impactful when highlighting a surprising or disappointing absence of such behavior.

Common error

Avoid using "modicum of decency" in situations where the lack of ethical behavior is minor or inconsequential. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Reserve it for serious ethical lapses.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modicum of decency" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object of a verb or preposition. It refers to a small or moderate amount of ethical or moral behavior that is expected or desired. This is consistent with Ludwig's examples, which illustrate its role in expressing disappointment or criticism.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "modicum of decency" is a noun phrase that expresses the expectation of a minimal level of ethical or moral behavior. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered grammatically correct, although its use is relatively uncommon. Primarily found in News & Media, the phrase serves to express disappointment or criticism when such basic standards are not met. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the context and ensure that the situation warrants the implied level of ethical failure. Alternatives such as "basic level of respect" or "slightest hint of morality" can provide similar meaning with varying emphasis. Therefore, choose the one that best suits the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basic level of respect

Emphasizes the fundamental aspect of showing consideration towards others, differing in its focus on respect rather than general ethical behavior.

slightest hint of morality

Highlights the presence of moral principles even in a minimal amount, using "morality" instead of "decency".

minimum standard of ethics

Focuses on the ethical aspect using "ethics" and "standard" instead of "decency" and "modicum".

touch of common courtesy

Replaces "decency" with "courtesy", emphasizing politeness and social graces.

degree of moral uprightness

Focuses on moral integrity and virtue using "uprightness" instead of "decency".

iota of ethical consideration

Highlights ethical thinking and thoughtfulness, differing in its emphasis on consideration rather than general ethical behavior.

semblance of moral integrity

Emphasizes the appearance of moral values using "semblance" and "integrity" instead of "modicum" and "decency".

shred of ethical behavior

Emphasizes a tiny amount of ethical conduct, using "shred" instead of "modicum" and focusing specifically on behavior.

element of human kindness

Focuses on benevolence and compassion, differing in its emphasis on kindness rather than general ethical behavior.

kernel of moral soundness

Highlights the fundamental aspect of good morals, using "kernel" and "soundness" instead of "modicum" and "decency".

FAQs

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

Use "modicum of decency" to express disappointment or outrage when someone fails to meet basic ethical or moral standards. For example, "Even in politics, one would expect a "modicum of decency"".

What's a good alternative to "modicum of decency"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "basic level of respect", "slightest hint of morality", or "minimum standard of ethics".

Is it appropriate to use "modicum of decency" in formal writing?

Yes, "modicum of decency" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in journalistic or analytical contexts where you're critiquing behavior or actions. However, ensure the tone remains objective and not overly emotional.

What is the difference between "modicum of decency" and "sense of decency"?

"Modicum of decency" implies a small amount of ethical behavior is expected or desired, whereas "sense of decency" refers to someone's inherent understanding and adherence to ethical principles. Having no "sense of decency" is more damning than showing no ""modicum of decency"".