Decent
ˈdiːsənt
Definitions
2 meaningsConforming to the accepted standards of proper behavior or taste; respectable.
ˈdiːsənt
Conforming to standards of propriety, good taste, or morality.
He made a decent attempt to apologize.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're at a party, and someone is playing music that isn't loud or inappropriate. You might say the music is 'decent.' It means it's alright, not too bad, and socially acceptable. It's like giving something a thumbs up without being super excited.
👶 For kids: Being a good person and doing the right thing. Like being kind and polite.
More Examples
The hotel room was clean and decent.
It's not a very decent thing to do.
How It's Used
"She always dresses in a decent manner."
"The company has a decent code of conduct."
Of a satisfactory standard or quality; adequate.
ˈdiːsənt
Adequate or acceptable; satisfactory.
She made a decent profit on the sale.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're getting paid for a job. If you're paid 'decent' money, it means it's enough money to live on and not too little. It's like saying 'that's good enough' or 'it works!'
👶 For kids: Good enough! Not too bad, not too great. Just right.
More Examples
They had a decent meal at the new restaurant.
He put in a decent effort on the project.
How It's Used
"They earned a decent salary."
"The restaurant offered a decent discount."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Middle French *decent*, from Latin *decens*, present participle of *decēre* 'to be fitting'.
The word's use has evolved to include both moral and quality-based meanings, initially with a strong emphasis on propriety.
Memory tip
Think of a person being 'decent' as someone who is 'decorous' or 'respectable' in their actions and appearance.
Word Origin
"to be fitting"