There is often confusion over the words 'descent', 'decent' and 'dissent'. Descent
The noun
descent has a few meanings:
The action of
descending (i.e., going downwards).
 The
Boeing 737 started its descent from 20,000 feet. 
|
A downhill incline.
It
features a long, steep descent that is ideal for advanced skiers. |
Family origin.
She is
from Indian descent. |
Decent
The adjective
decent means civilized, good or adequate. (It rhymes with 'recent'.)
Examples:
Ninety-eight percent of the adults in this country are decent, hardworking
citizens.
That's a
decent plate of food.
DissentDissent can be a noun
meaning 'difference of opinion' or a verb
meaning 'to disagree'.
Examples:
The referee
has given him a red card for dissent.
Acceptance of dissent is the fundamental requirement of a free
society.
I will
dissent if you continue with this course of action.
(Dissent is a verb in this example.)
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DECENT RHYMES WITH RECENT
Native English speakers always pronounce these words correctly. Confusion only
occurs in writing. Therefore, if you remember that 'decent' rhymes with
'recent' (which is logical considering they share the same last five letters),
then you will succeed in differentiating between decent and descent.
DISS = DISSENT
The street word 'diss' (deriving from disrespect) has connotations of
disagreement and arguing. Therefore, the first four letters of 'dissent'
can remind you of its meaning.
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Easily Confused Words
