Cool MateAcceptable vs Decent
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Acceptable | Decent | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Okay or good enough to be used. | Good enough; acceptable. |
| CEFR level | B2 | B2 |
| Part of speech | adjective | adjective |
| Usage notes | Used in both spoken and written contexts to indicate something that meets necessary standards. It can be formal in academic contexts and more casual in everyday conversations. Avoid in circumstances that require high standards or exceptional quality. | Use 'decent' when describing something that meets basic standards but isn't exceptional. It's suitable for most contexts but may sound too casual in very formal situations. |
Frequently asked questions: Acceptable vs Decent
What's the difference between "Acceptable" and "Decent"?
"Acceptable" means: Okay or good enough to be used. "Decent" means: Good enough; acceptable.
When should I use "Acceptable" and "Decent"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Acceptable" and "Decent" the same CEFR level?
"Acceptable" is at B2, "Decent" is at B2 on the CEFR scale.