Descent, Decent, and Dissent

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What Is the Difference between "Descent," "Decent," and "Dissent"?

"Descent" and "decent" are easy to confuse because their spellings are so similar. Similarly, "descent" and "dissent" are also often confused because they sound identical (i.e., they are perfect homonyms).

The two words that cause writers most trouble are "descent" and "decent." When writers are reminded how these words are pronounced, the issue is usually resolved.

• "Descent" means going downwards, a downward slope, or ancestry.
• "Decent" means civilized, good, or adequate.
• "Dissent" means to argue or a difference of opinion.

More about "Descent," "Decent," and "Dissent"

There is often confusion over the words "descent," "decent," and "dissent." They sound similar, but their meanings are quite different.

Descent

The noun "descent" has three main meanings:

(1) The action of descending (i.e., going downwards).

• The Boeing 737 started its descent from 20,000 feet.

(2) A downhill incline.

• It features a long, steep descent that is ideal for advanced skiers.

(3) Family origin.

• She is from Indian descent.

Decent

The adjective "decent" means civilized, good, or adequate. (It rhymes with "recent.")

Example sentences with "decent":

• Ninety-eight percent of the adults here are decent, hard-working citizens.
• That's a decent plate of food.

Dissent

"Dissent" can be a noun meaning "difference of opinion" or a verb meaning "to disagree."

Example sentences with "dissent":

• 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.)

Remembering "Decent"

"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), you will succeed in differentiating between "decent" and "descent."

Remembering "Dissent"
The street word to diss (deriving from disrespect) is close in meaning to "to dissent" (which means "to disagree"). Therefore, the first four letters of "dissent" can remind you of its meaning.

Ready for the Test?