not decent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not decent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is considered inappropriate, immoral, or lacking in good manners or standards. Example: "The comments made during the meeting were not decent and offended several attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

They said it was "not decent" for a Socialist soldier to have a capitalist girl friend.

The New Yorker

But that's only because I'm a vegetarian due to neurotic reasons, not decent, ethical ones.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

My mum says, 'Oh, no, they're low class — they're not decent people.' But I like them".

The New Yorker

Greenhalgh has declared that this estate is "not decent", and has offered it for sale to property developers.

Independent

"These are not decent people," said Monir Uddin, the clerk who has worked behind the counter for about eight years.

The New York Times

Not all Germans had genocide on the mind, and Hitler was neither a genius nor an innocent, and certainly not decent.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

"I wasn't decent for Facebook".

The New York Times

Shouldn't decent Americans quit the GOP?

The Washington Post

And the product wasn't decent.

The New York Times - Magazine

But New Yorkers would not venture here if the food wasn't decent.

The Guardian - Travel

"These aren't decent, thinking people.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not decent", consider the specific nuance you wish to convey – is it a matter of morality, etiquette, or social acceptability? Choose synonyms accordingly.

Common error

In formal writing, avoid overuse of the phrase "not decent", which can sometimes sound vague. Opt for more precise alternatives like "inappropriate" or "unacceptable" to clarify the specific issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not decent" functions primarily as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to express a negative judgment about its quality, morality, or appropriateness. According to Ludwig's analysis, this phrase serves to express disapproval or criticism.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not decent" serves as a versatile way to express disapproval or deficiency. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used across different contexts, including news and media. While it functions as an adjective phrase, its specific nuance can vary, encompassing matters of morality, etiquette, or social acceptability. When choosing to use "not decent", consider more precise alternatives like "inappropriate" or "unacceptable" in more formal contexts to clearly convey the intended meaning. Ludwig's examples highlight its flexibility, but careful selection ensures the most effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indecent

Single word synonym, direct replacement.

unbecoming

Implies something inappropriate for a particular role or situation.

inappropriate

A broader term indicating unsuitability.

unacceptable

Indicates something that cannot be tolerated or approved.

out of line

Suggests behavior that exceeds the bounds of what is considered acceptable.

not respectable

Emphasizes a lack of social standing or good reputation.

below standard

Focuses on a failure to meet an expected level of quality or behavior.

morally questionable

Highlights ethical concerns surrounding the action or behavior.

lacking propriety

Emphasizes a lack of good manners or decorum.

tasteless

Suggests a lack of aesthetic or social sensitivity.

FAQs

How can I use "not decent" in a sentence?

You can use "not decent" to describe behavior, conditions, or objects that are considered inappropriate or of low quality. For instance, "The living conditions were "not decent" for human habitation" or "His behavior at the party was "not decent"".

What's a more formal alternative to "not decent"?

For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "inappropriate", "unacceptable", or "unbecoming". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "not decent" the same as "indecent"?

While similar, "indecent" often carries a stronger connotation of being morally offensive, particularly in relation to sexuality. "Not decent" can be used more broadly to describe anything that fails to meet a minimum standard of acceptability. So, while both of them are often interchangeable, be careful with the different nuances.

What's the difference between "not decent" and "not appropriate"?

"Not appropriate" typically implies a lack of suitability for a specific situation or context, while "not decent" suggests a more general lack of respectability or morality. Something can be "not appropriate" without necessarily being "not decent", and vice versa.