semblance of decency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "semblance of decency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a superficial or outward appearance of respectability or morality, often in a context where true decency is lacking. Example: "Despite his questionable actions, he maintained a semblance of decency in public, ensuring that no one could accuse him of being entirely immoral."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Soft money, the corporate and personal contribution loophole, is in addition to this and has destroyed any semblance of decency or restraint.

The New York Times

"There is still some semblance of decency — even if the story is sensational, there's no sensationalism about it," said Steven Stolman, a creative director at the preppy footwear company Jack Rogers and a longtime reader.

The New York Times

I believe, as I assert relentlessly -- but with an army of evidence of all sorts to support my claim -- in The Philosophy of Childing that it will be up to our nation's children and youth to set an example of mature behavior if we're to emerge from these next years with even a semblance of decency and dignity.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Financial support for these severe punishments, they say, is blatantly inconsistent with international standards and any semblance of human decency.

Vice

I managed to find another site to work on for a weekly pay and in a month's time I had enough to leave this country in which blacks have no shelter, are denied food and live in the absence of any semblance of human decency.

Huffington Post

His later conversion to power-sharing and a semblance of basic human decency means Paisley can be seen as a deceptively benign figure, but at the time his tub-thumping speeches, naked sectarianism and skill at inciting trouble with a degree of deniability meant he was a dangerous man indeed.

Vice

UNHCR and partners are doing all they can to ensure refugees have some semblance of comfort, nutrition and decency here.

The Guardian

Thresholds of decency?

The Guardian - Opinion

You offenders of decency.

The Guardian - Sport

The Legion of Decency rated the films.

The New York Times

That is a matter of decency.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "semblance of decency" with strong verbs (e.g., maintain, feign, project) to emphasize the effort involved in creating this appearance.

Common error

Avoid using "semblance of decency" when describing actions or behaviors that are genuinely decent and moral. The phrase carries a connotation of superficiality or insincerity, so it's best suited for situations where the decency is questionable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "semblance of decency" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It describes a superficial or outward appearance of respectability or morality.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "semblance of decency" is a noun phrase used to describe a superficial or outward appearance of morality. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts. The phrase implies skepticism or criticism regarding perceived moral standing, suggesting that the apparent decency may not be genuine. Alternatives include "appearance of propriety" and "veneer of respectability". When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the intended meaning of superficial or questionable morality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appearance of propriety

This alternative emphasizes the outward display of being proper and morally correct.

veneer of respectability

This suggests a thin, superficial layer of respectability concealing something less admirable.

outward show of decorum

This emphasizes the external display of polite and socially acceptable behavior.

pretense of morality

This implies a false or insincere claim of moral virtue.

facade of righteousness

This suggests a deceptive outward appearance of being morally right or just.

superficial goodness

This highlights the lack of depth or sincerity in the apparent decency.

mask of virtue

This emphasizes the deceptive nature of the apparent decency, hiding less virtuous qualities.

show of ethics

This alternative describes an intentional display of ethical behavior, possibly without genuine commitment.

air of morality

This suggests an atmosphere or impression of moral uprightness, which may or may not be genuine.

semblance of integrity

This implies an outward appearance of honesty and strong moral principles.

FAQs

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

You can use "semblance of decency" to describe a situation where something appears to be decent on the surface, but may not be genuinely moral. For example: "Despite his questionable actions, he maintained a "semblance of decency" in public."

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

You can use alternatives like "appearance of propriety", "veneer of respectability", or "pretense of morality" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "semblance of decency"?

It's appropriate when you want to imply that something only has an outward appearance of being moral or respectable, often suggesting a lack of genuine integrity. Use it when you suspect insincerity or superficiality.

What is the difference between "semblance of decency" and genuine decency?

"Semblance of decency" suggests an outward appearance or pretense of moral behavior, while genuine decency refers to true moral integrity and sincere ethical conduct. The former is often used to criticize superficial displays, while the latter describes authentic virtue.