Phrase guide

do the decent thing

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To take the most honorable or appropriate course of action, even if is not necessarily in the person's own interests.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Qualifier: set phrase

Examples

  • Mr Speaker, will the Prime Minister do the decent thing and resign?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: do the right thing

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.