# do the decent thing

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/do-the-decent-thing
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- He decided to do the decent thing and return the lost wallet.
- After realizing he made a mistake, he chose to do the decent thing and admit it to his boss.
- Despite the personal cost to his reputation, he felt compelled to do the decent thing and testify against his former business partner.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.