decencia
“decencia” means “decency” in Spanish (moral integrity or proper behavior).
decency
Also: modesty, dignity
📝 In Action
Ten la decencia de decir la verdad.
A2Have the decency to tell the truth.
Él siempre actúa con mucha decencia en el trabajo.
B1He always acts with a lot of integrity at work.
La decencia es un valor que se aprende en casa.
B2Decency is a value that is learned at home.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: decencia
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the correct way to say 'He has no decency'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'decentia', which comes from 'decere,' meaning 'to be fitting' or 'to be suitable.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'decencia' only about being a good person?
Not strictly. While it mostly refers to moral integrity, it can also refer to 'modesty' in how one dresses or 'appropriateness' in how one speaks in public.
How do I say 'Do the decent thing'?
You would usually use the adjective: 'Haz lo que es decente' or 'Ten la decencia de hacer lo correcto.'
Is 'decencia' a formal word?
It is neutral. You can use it in a courtroom or in a casual conversation with a friend when you are disappointed in someone's behavior.