semblance of decorum

USAGE SUMMARY

"semblance of decorum" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a person or a group of people pretending to have more manners or a higher standard of behavior than they usually do. For example: "The CEO maintained a semblance of decorum during the presentation, despite the fact that she was visibly angry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If the virtual world is to achieve any semblance of decorum, it will have to fashion some sort of murky best practice.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Compere Jim Devereaux will valiantly attempt to maintain, if not decorum, a semblance of order.

The Guardian - Music

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

The overarching mode is one of decorum.

The Guardian - Travel

"It's an issue of decorum".

The New York Times

Generally, he displays a sailor's sense of decorum.

The New York Times - Books

The Democratic-run Assembly looks, in contrast, like a model of decorum.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "semblance of decorum" to describe situations where outward appearances of proper behavior are maintained, even if the underlying reality is different. It's especially useful when implying a contrast between the superficial and the genuine.

Common error

Avoid using "semblance of decorum" when describing genuinely respectful and well-behaved situations. The phrase implies a superficiality or lack of true adherence to proper conduct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "semblance of decorum" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It denotes an outward or superficial appearance of proper behavior or etiquette, as supported by Ludwig's analysis.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "semblance of decorum" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an outward appearance of proper behavior, often suggesting a contrast with the underlying reality. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and appropriate usage. While not exceedingly common, the phrase finds its primary context in news and media. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the intention is to highlight a superficial display rather than genuine adherence to proper conduct. Alternative phrases such as "show of propriety" or "veneer of respectability" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show of propriety

Emphasizes the outward display of proper behavior, potentially lacking genuine sincerity.

veneer of respectability

Suggests a thin, superficial layer of respectability that may conceal something less honorable.

outward civility

Focuses on polite and courteous behavior displayed externally, without necessarily reflecting inner feelings.

pretense of order

Highlights the false appearance of a structured and well-managed environment.

surface formality

Indicates that adherence to formal rules and procedures is only skin-deep.

hint of etiquette

Suggests a subtle or understated adherence to social graces.

air of politeness

Implies a deliberately cultivated atmosphere of courteous interaction.

guise of good manners

Emphasizes the deceptive nature of presenting oneself as well-mannered.

facade of gentility

Indicates an artificial or superficial display of refined and elegant behavior.

semblance of orderliness

Suggests a superficial or incomplete state of being tidy and well-organized.

FAQs

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

You can use "semblance of decorum" to describe a situation where people are trying to maintain an appearance of proper behavior, even if they are not really behaving that way. For example, "The meeting maintained a "semblance of decorum", despite the heated arguments beneath the surface."

What's a good alternative to "semblance of decorum"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "show of propriety", "veneer of respectability", or "outward civility". Each carries a slightly different nuance, so choose the one that best fits your intended meaning.

Is "semblance of decorum" formal or informal?

"Semblance of decorum" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase. It can be used in a variety of contexts, but it is more common in writing than in everyday conversation.

What does "semblance" mean in the phrase "semblance of decorum"?

In this context, "semblance" refers to an outward appearance or impression, often implying that the reality is different. So, "semblance of decorum" means an outward appearance of proper behavior or etiquette, but perhaps not a genuine adherence to those principles.