To do the decent thing

usgb
phrase

Acting according to moral standards, usually when expected or needed.

When he found the wallet on the ground, John did the decent thing and returned it to its owner.
Visual representation of "to do the decent thing" - Acting according to moral standards, usually when expected or needed.

Often appears as...

  • did the decent thing
  • doing the decent thing

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "to do the decent thing"
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Cultural Expectation

In many cultures, doing the decent thing is highly praised and often expected in social interactions.

Illustration for Cultural Expectation
At the funeral, they did the decent thing by offering their condolences to the family.
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Moral Dilemma

The phrase is often used when a person is faced with a choice where the morally right action is clear.

Illustration for Moral Dilemma
Even though it was hard, she did the decent thing and admitted to her mistake.
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Expectation vs. Action

It underscores the difference between what's expected and what one actually does, focusing on the right action taken.

Illustration for Expectation vs. Action
After the debate, the candidate did the decent thing by shaking hands with his opponent.
Visual representation of the word "To do the decent thing"

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