Words / C2

di-KORR-uh-m/dɪˈkɔːrəm/

Decorum is behaviour that is correct, dignified, and socially fitting: parliamentary decorum, a breach of decorum. Courtesy (already in the dictionary) is polite respect; etiquette (already in the dictionary) is the rules of polite behaviour in a group, and protocol (already in the dictionary) is official procedure. Boorish and churlish (already in the dictionary) are coarse and ungenerous — the opposite flavour. Dignity in the chamber is not a dated finding.

Meaning

Behaviour that is correct, dignified, and socially fitting.

Examples

• “Decorum in the chamber still requires a dated finding.”
• “Courtesy is polite respect (already in B1). Etiquette is the polite-rule set (already in C1). Protocol is official procedure (already in C1). Boorish is coarse (already in C2). Churlish is ungenerous (already in C2). Civility after a sitting can be exact. Civility instead of a numbered minute is theatre. Write the finding; then the forms.”

Good to know

Dignified correct behaviour. Everyday: courtesy (already in this dictionary). Close: etiquette (already in C1); protocol (already in C1). Contrast: boorish / churlish (already in C2). Manners ≠ a minute.

Near in meaning

propriety, etiquette, dignity, protocol

New