Discussion on question by Michael Emerson: What's a good word to describe a public place that looks like it wouldn't be rough?

Feeds

01:56

Q: What's a good word to describe a public place that looks like it wouldn't be rough?

I'm looking for a word that I can use in my writings to describe a bar / pub that doesn't look like it would be a 'rough' place, i.e. one that isn't likely to instigate trouble. I was thinking of the word self-effacing but I think maybe that would be more descriptive of a person rather than a bui...

Tᴚoɯɐuo

How about "quiet"?

Michael Emerson

I was thinking more of a description of the appearance of the place from outside, rather than inside.

Pam

Hi, I've edited to suggest a sample sentence. Single word requests require them, and it'll save some negativity. Please feel free to edit it..."it looks ____ on the outside".

Michael Emerson

I saw it, thanks - I did change it so it fits in more with the actual sentence I'm writing.

Pam

Single word requests are usually popular on here (so maybe wait a while before accepting any answers), and a sample sentence just completes the question. Thanks for editing.

Fattie

01:56

perhaps "It seems tame enough..."

you'd sometimes say "It look family-friendly" in relevant situations.

remarkl

Would "Welcoming" or "inviting"? work?

Kate Bunting

How about 'respectable'?

Michael Emerson

@remarkl I think this is a good suggestion, 'welcoming' would probably work well in this case.

pbasdf

Personally I would refer to it as salubrious - literally health giving but some dictionaries include a metaphorical sense of “not run down”.

Michael Emerson

@pbasdf Actually, salubrious was a word I considered, but I felt that maybe it was a bit much (plus I did associate it more with health)

Fattie

01:56

Having read all your comments, @MichaelEmerson , I'd probably write: "the bar looked innocent enough ..." It's a bit unclear what you want though ...

Cascabel

...a clean, well-lighted place.

Solocutor

"Mild," "tame," or "harmless" are all neutral words that fit your example. "Bland," "boring," or "anodyne" are words that might normally have a negative connotation, but in your example their negative qualities become positive when used in a playful tone.