out of decency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "out of decency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that an action is taken based on moral or ethical considerations. Example: "She decided to return the lost wallet out of decency, knowing it belonged to someone else."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The company's lawyer has said that Mr. Mas and the company's chief financial officer were keeping silent "out of decency and discretion" but were still in southern France.

The New York Times

For the Palestinians who are prepared to forgive the hope is that the majority of Israelis, out of decency or out of sheer desire for a quiet life, don't want any more war.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Nigeria is neither America where a public official in Etteh's position would have resigned out of decency; Japan where she would have committed suicide for shame," wrote Rotimi Fasan in a column this month in Vanguard, a national newspaper.

The New York Times

"He could not have seen bruises on her because out of decency, I covered her up with a disposable blanket," Smith said.

Los Angeles Times

According to John Bowker's book, What Muslims Believe, the headscarf is worn out of "decency in clothing" -- as to "prevent sexual temptation".

Huffington Post

Interacting with infected individuals does not transmit the disease unless an: "individual goes out of decency having promiscuous sex all around or getting blood transfusion from mushroom clinics".

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

As 2016 choked-out our concepts of decency and democracy, Goldsmith was there with us, pummelling his own face like a trust-fund Tyson Fury.

Vice

Surely Canada, with its solid democracy, its tolerance and openness, stands out as a haven of decency.

The Guardian - Opinion

The tenor Russell Thomas brought out the decency of Andres, Wozzeck's fellow soldier.

The New York Times - Arts

American history has already been altered by their actions — institutions emptied out, historical continuities destroyed, traditions of decency savaged — in ways that will not be easy to rehabilitate.

The New Yorker

No, out of a sense of decency to razor manufacturers.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger alternatives like "out of respect" or "from a sense of morality" if the specific context warrants a more forceful or precise expression.

Common error

Avoid using "out of decency" when the action is merely a matter of legal compliance or self-interest. Decency implies a voluntary act exceeding basic requirements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "out of decency" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to explain the motivation behind an action. Ludwig AI suggests it expresses a reason rooted in ethical or moral considerations.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academic

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "out of decency" serves as an adverbial phrase, indicating that an action stems from moral or ethical considerations. Though deemed correct by Ludwig AI, it occurs relatively rarely, predominantly in News & Media contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure the context genuinely reflects moral motivation, distinguishing it from mere politeness or legal compliance. To enhance clarity and impact, consider alternatives like "out of respect" or "from a sense of morality" as these may better suit specific communicative intentions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

out of respect

Emphasizes consideration for others' feelings or rights, focusing on avoiding offense or showing deference.

out of common courtesy

Highlights adherence to basic social norms and politeness, differing from "out of decency" by specifying the expected behavior.

from a sense of morality

Focuses on internal moral principles as the driving force, shifting the emphasis from external standards of decency.

on ethical grounds

Frames the action as based on a formal or philosophical ethical framework, adding a layer of rigor absent in "out of decency".

as a matter of principle

Highlights a commitment to a specific belief or value, which may go beyond general decency.

out of moral obligation

Implies a stronger sense of duty than "out of decency", suggesting a binding commitment.

driven by ethical considerations

Emphasizes the thoughtful deliberation behind the action, suggesting a more conscious choice.

in accordance with good conscience

Connects the action directly to one's internal moral compass, indicating a personal conviction.

guided by moral imperatives

Focuses on powerful internal drives rooted in morality.

from a standpoint of integrity

Connects the action to an overarching commitment to moral uprightness, suggesting a more comprehensive moral stance.

FAQs

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

You can use "out of decency" to describe an action motivated by moral or ethical considerations. For example: "She returned the lost wallet "out of decency", knowing it belonged to someone else."

What can I say instead of "out of decency"?

Alternatives include "out of respect", "out of common courtesy", or "from a sense of morality", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "out of decency" and "out of politeness"?

"Out of decency" implies a moral or ethical motivation, while "out of politeness" suggests adherence to social etiquette. Decency involves a deeper sense of right and wrong.

When is it appropriate to use "out of decency" rather than "out of kindness"?

Use "out of decency" when the action is rooted in a sense of moral obligation or ethical principle. Use "out of kindness" when the action is driven by compassion or goodwill.