modicum of decorum

USAGE SUMMARY

"modicum of decorum" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means a small amount or degree of proper behavior or etiquette. Example: Despite the tense political atmosphere, the diplomat maintained a modicum of decorum during the press conference.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

He knows that to play in the global economy he must bring his resources to the marketplace and behave with a modicum of decorum.

The New Yorker

So my fellow-travellers on the Temples of Middle Egypt tour from Cairo to Aswan via Luxor - veterans, in the main, of Explore's hump-your-own-luggage trips - had reached that age that requires a modicum of decorum in travel.

The Guardian - Travel

If President Obama's audience detractors learned anything from that elderly woman it wasn't to conduct themselves with a modicum of decorum when in public.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Most offices still expect a modicum of sartorial decorum, even if they're run by millennials with a laid-back Silicon Valley ethos.

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

He still liked a degree of decorum.

The Guardian

"It's an issue of decorum".

The New York Times

The overarching mode is one of decorum.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "modicum of decorum", ensure the context warrants a slightly formal or elevated tone. It's most effective when describing situations where a lapse in proper behavior would be particularly noticeable or disruptive.

Common error

Avoid using "modicum of decorum" in casual or informal settings where simpler phrases like "good manners" or "politeness" would be more appropriate. Overusing formal language can sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modicum of decorum" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig AI highlights, it signifies a limited degree of appropriate behavior or etiquette in a given context.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modicum of decorum" is a grammatically sound phrase denoting a minimal degree of proper behavior or etiquette. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its usage is relatively rare, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. It's best suited for situations where formality is somewhat reduced, yet a certain standard of politeness is still necessary. Alternatives such as "a bit of propriety" or "basic good manners" might be more appropriate in informal settings. The key is to reserve "modicum of decorum" for instances where a subtle, nuanced expression of etiquette is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bit of propriety

Replaces "decorum" with "propriety", focusing on adherence to socially accepted standards of behavior.

a degree of civility

Substitutes "decorum" with "civility", emphasizing politeness and courteousness in interactions.

a touch of etiquette

Replaces "modicum of decorum" with "touch of etiquette", highlighting adherence to formal rules of behavior.

a hint of respectability

Changes "decorum" to "respectability", focusing on maintaining an appearance of being respectable.

a semblance of order

Shifts the focus from behavior to maintaining a superficial appearance of orderliness and control.

a small amount of politeness

Replaces "modicum of decorum" with "small amount of politeness", which is more direct and less formal.

a shade of formality

Replaces "modicum of decorum" with "shade of formality", which emphasizes a slight adherence to formal conventions.

a grain of tact

Uses "tact" instead of "decorum", stressing sensitivity and skill in dealing with others or with delicate issues.

a measure of restraint

Emphasizes self-control and measured behavior rather than adherence to social norms.

basic good manners

A more straightforward and less formal way to express the need for proper conduct.

FAQs

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

You can use "modicum of decorum" to describe situations where a small degree of proper behavior is expected or required. For example: "Despite the heated debate, the participants maintained a "modicum of decorum"."

What does "modicum of decorum" mean?

"Modicum of decorum" refers to a small amount or degree of proper behavior, etiquette, or politeness. It suggests that while the situation might not be perfectly formal, some level of respect and good manners is still necessary.

What can I say instead of "modicum of decorum"?

Alternatives to "modicum of decorum" include "a bit of propriety", "a degree of civility", or "basic good manners", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

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

It is appropriate to use "modicum of decorum" in situations where formality is reduced but not entirely absent, and a minimal level of proper behavior is still expected. This phrase is best suited for formal writing or speech where the need to emphasize a subtle level of etiquette or propriety is present.