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The idiom “Not a Spark of Decency” means a complete lack of ordinary, customary kindness and respect. It also means a lack of politeness that is presumed by society. Someone who lacks manners or is extremely impolite.
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Not a Spark of Decency Meaning and Origin
The idiom “Not a spark of decency” means a complete lack of morality, kindness, or good manners. It is used to criticize someone’s behavior, suggesting they have no sense of ethics or respect for others.
The phrase gained popularity after Donald Trump used it in a 2018 tweet against journalist Mika Brzezinski, accusing her of lacking basic decency. However, the expression itself is older and has been used informally in English for years. “Spark” metaphorically represents a small amount of something—here, decency—implying that even the tiniest bit is absent.
It is often used in literary works, political speeches, and everyday conversations to condemn rudeness or unethical behavior. The phrase aligns with similar expressions like “not a shred of dignity” or “lacking basic courtesy,” making it a powerful critique in social or political discourse.
Not a Spark of Decency Idiom Usage with Example
Mentioned below are a few examples of the idiom:
- When the scandal broke, the politician showed not a spark of decency. He refused to apologize for his actions and instead blamed others for his mistakes.
- Despite the overwhelming evidence against him, the corrupt CEO displayed not a spark of decency during the trial, showing no remorse for defrauding investors and employees.
- The bully continued to torment his classmates with not a spark of decency, revelling in their pain and refusing to change his behaviour.
- The company’s decision to lay off hundreds of employees without notice or severance pay demonstrated not a spark of decency, leaving many families in financial distress.
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Synonyms and Similar Phrases
Given below are a few synonyms of the idiom are”
- Ill-mannered
- Bad-mannered
- Impolite
- Discourteous
- Impertinent
- Insolent
- Impudent
- Cheeky
- Audacious
- Presumptuous
- Uncivil
Also Read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences and Meanings
Not a Spark of Decency Quiz
1. What does the phrase “Not a spark of decency” mean?
A) A small amount of kindness
B) A complete lack of morality or good manners
C) A person with great integrity
D) A polite way to express disagreement
Answer: B) A complete lack of morality or good manners
2. Which of the following is a synonym for “Not a spark of decency”?
A) Totally unethical
B) Kind and considerate
C) Moderately rude
D) Slightly disrespectful
Answer: A) Totally unethical
3. Who famously used the phrase “Not a spark of decency” in a tweet in 2018?
A) Barack Obama
B) Joe Biden
C) Donald Trump
D) Hillary Clinton
Answer: C) Donald Trump
4. The word “spark” in this phrase metaphorically represents:
A) Fire
B) A small amount
C) Electricity
D) A bright idea
Answer: B) A small amount
5. If someone says, “That politician has not a spark of decency,” what are they implying?
A) The politician is highly intelligent
B) The politician lacks any ethical behavior
C) The politician is very popular
D) The politician is well-dressed
Answer: B) The politician lacks any ethical behavior
6. Which of the following phrases is most similar in meaning to “Not a spark of decency”?
A) “A ray of hope”
B) “Not a shred of dignity”
C) “A breath of fresh air”
D) “Full of wisdom”
Answer: B) “Not a shred of dignity”
7. In which type of conversation is “Not a spark of decency” most likely to be used?
A) Praising someone for their kindness
B) Expressing deep respect
C) Criticizing someone’s rude or unethical behavior
D) Making a neutral observation
Answer: C) Criticizing someone’s rude or unethical behavior
8. What is the tone of the phrase “Not a spark of decency”?
A) Neutral
B) Positive
C) Strongly critical
D) Encouraging
Answer: C) Strongly critical
9. If a teacher says, “This student shows not a spark of decency,” what does it mean?
A) The student is very disciplined
B) The student is extremely polite
C) The student is completely disrespectful
D) The student is intelligent but shy
Answer: C) The student is completely disrespectful
10. Which of the following sentences correctly uses the phrase “Not a spark of decency”?
A) “Even after being caught, he showed not a spark of decency by refusing to apologize.”
B) “She helped the elderly lady cross the street, showing not a spark of decency.”
C) “The candle flickered in the night, giving off not a spark of decency.”
D) “He worked hard for his exams, proving he had not a spark of decency.”
Answer: A) “Even after being caught, he showed not a spark of decency by refusing to apologize.”
Also Read: Idioms for IELTS
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FAQs
This idiom means a complete lack of morality, kindness, or respect. It is used to describe someone who behaves rudely or unethically, showing no concern for others’ feelings, social norms, or basic courtesy.
Decency refers to behavior that aligns with moral and social standards of respect, kindness, and fairness. It involves treating others with politeness, honesty, and dignity, reflecting a sense of integrity, good manners, and ethical responsibility in everyday interactions.
The literal meaning of an idiom refers to the direct interpretation of its words, which often differs from its intended meaning. However, idioms typically have figurative meanings that convey cultural expressions, making their actual interpretation different from the literal definition.
Hope now you understand the concept where this idiom is used. For blogs on Learn English, follow Leverage Edu.
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