shred of dignity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shred of dignity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which someone has lost or diminished their pride or self-respect. For example, "After the public humiliation, he had not a shred of dignity left."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

To the minister I say, if you have a shred of dignity, resign.

The Guardian - Opinion

If you had a shred of dignity, you would have long resigned by now...

The New York Times

You don't pick up this story and not treat it with every shred of dignity and honesty that you can.

The Guardian - Film

2010: Finish bottom of an easy group, losing two matches, their heads and all shred of dignity.

The Guardian - Sport

Iraqis were mercilessly bereft of every shred of dignity and hope and languished for years in fear of needless hardship and loss of lives.

The New York Times

Not if I wanted to slink off to my rental car — which, I suddenly realized, wasn't a Prius or other such hybrid — with even the slenderest shred of dignity.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Harper was willing to sacrifice every shred of his dignity to try to keep power.

Huffington Post

He could have maintained a shred of his dignity and resigned immediately.

Huffington Post

IT'S not clear how a candidate might guard the last shreds of dignity.

The New York Times

That would give them a way of returning on their terms and with at least some shreds of dignity.

The Guardian - Opinion

As helpless and pathetic as he becomes, Mr. Depardieu's Georges still maintains a few shreds of dignity.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional impact of using this phrase, as it often implies a negative judgment or a state of vulnerability.

Common error

Avoid using "shred of dignity" in highly formal or academic writing, as it can sound melodramatic. Opt for more neutral language when describing loss of respect or credibility in these settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shred of dignity" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It often serves as the object of a preposition or verb, describing a state or quality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "shred of dignity" is a noun phrase used to describe a state where someone has very little or no self-respect or honor left. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. While its register leans towards neutral, it's advisable to avoid it in very formal or academic settings due to its melodramatic undertones. The phrase expresses a sense of loss and vulnerability and its use should be considered carefully for its emotional impact. Related phrases like "iota of self-respect" or "vestige of honor" can be used as alternatives depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

iota of self-respect

Emphasizes a minimal amount of self-respect, similar to a "shred of dignity".

iota of self-worth

Emphasizes a minimal amount of self-worth, in the same line of a "shred of dignity".

vestige of honor

Focuses on a remaining trace of honor, paralleling the idea of a "shred of dignity".

fragment of pride

Concentrates on a small piece of remaining pride, mirroring a "shred of dignity".

semblance of composure

Highlights maintaining outward calmness, reflecting an attempt to preserve dignity.

hint of grace

Underscores a subtle display of grace under pressure, akin to retaining some dignity.

air of respectability

Stresses an appearance of being respectable, a way to uphold dignity.

ounce of self-possession

Stresses the importance of remaining composed in the line of maintaining dignity.

degree of decorum

Focuses on behaving with proper etiquette to maintain dignity.

element of class

Focuses on maintaining a composed behaviour, linked to dignity.

FAQs

How can I use "shred of dignity" in a sentence?

You can use "shred of dignity" to describe a situation where someone has lost almost all of their self-respect or honor, as in "After the scandal, he didn't have a "shred of dignity" left."

What's the difference between "shred of dignity" and "semblance of dignity"?

"Shred of dignity" implies a minimal amount remaining after a significant loss, while "semblance of dignity" suggests an outward appearance or imitation of dignity that may not be genuine.

What can I say instead of "shred of dignity"?

You can use alternatives like "iota of self-respect", "vestige of honor", or "hint of grace" depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative to say someone has "not a shred of dignity"?

Yes, saying someone has "not a "shred of dignity"" is generally negative, implying they have acted in a way that is embarrassing or dishonorable.