ENGLISH
REFERENCE

do the decent thing

idiom
Meaning

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


Examples
SIMPLE

He decided to do the decent thing and return the lost wallet.

CONTEXTUAL

After realizing he made a mistake, he chose to do the decent thing and admit it to his boss.

COMPLEX

Despite the personal cost to his reputation, he felt compelled to do the decent thing and testify against his former business partner.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    be a thing

    To exist, or to be available, widespread, possible, or a common practice.

  2. 02

    best thing since sliced bread

    Alternative form of greatest thing since sliced bread.

  3. 03

    best thing since sliced pan

    Alternative form of greatest thing since sliced bread.

  4. 04

    bright young thing

    One who is youthful, clever, eager, and high-spirited in manner and attractive in appearance.

  5. 05

    chance'd be a fine thing

    Synonym of no chance or fat chance, with a somewhat more cheerful attitude.

  6. 06

    do one's own thing

    To do what one considers to be best suited or most satisfying for oneself; to do what expresses one's distinctive interests or talents; to do as one chooses.

  7. 07

    do the right thing

    To do what is ethical or just.

  8. 08

    greatest thing since sliced bread

    Something amazing, outstanding or praiseworthy, especially a relatively recent invention likely to improve people's lives.

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