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décence

decency, propriety

noun deh-SAHNS Rare

Origin: Latin decentia, from decens (fitting, proper)

Usage Note

Décence refers to conformity with accepted standards of proper behavior or dress. The adjective décent(e) means 'decent' and the antonym is indécence. It is often used in the phrase avoir la décence de meaning 'to have the decency to do something'.

Examples

"Il a eu la décence de s'excuser."

Natural Translation

He had the decency to apologize.

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