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View synonyms for improper

improper

[ im-prop-er ]

adjective

  1. not proper; not strictly belonging, applicable, correct, etc.; erroneous:

    He drew improper conclusions from the scant evidence.

    Synonyms: unsuited, unfit, inapplicable

    Antonyms: suitable, fitting

  2. not in accordance with propriety of behavior, manners, etc.:

    improper conduct at a funeral.

    Synonyms: unsuited, indecorous, unfit, inapplicable

    Antonyms: proper

  3. unsuitable or inappropriate, as for the purpose or occasion:

    improper attire for a formal dance.

    Synonyms: unsuited, unfit, inapplicable

    Antonyms: suitable, fitting

  4. abnormal or irregular:

    improper functioning of the speech mechanism.



improper

/ ɪmˈprɒpə /

adjective

  1. lacking propriety; not seemly or fitting
  2. unsuitable for a certain use or occasion; inappropriate

    an improper use for a tool

  3. irregular or abnormal
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Derived Forms

  • imˈproperness, noun
  • imˈproperly, adverb
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Other Words From

  • im·proper·ly adverb
  • im·proper·ness noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of improper1

From the Latin word improprius, dating back to 1535–45. See im- 2, proper
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Synonym Study

Improper, indecent, unbecoming, unseemly are applied to that which is unfitting or not in accordance with propriety. Improper has a wide range, being applied to whatever is not suitable or fitting, and often specifically to what does not conform to the standards of conventional morality: improper diet; improper behavior in church; improper language. Indecent, a strong word, is applied to what is offensively contrary to standards of propriety and especially of modesty: indecent behavior, literature. Unbecoming is applied to what is especially unfitting in the person concerned: conduct unbecoming a minister. Unseemly is applied to whatever is unfitting or improper under the circumstances: unseemly mirth.
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Example Sentences

In June, the ethics committee announced it was investigating several allegations against Gaetz, including that he “engaged in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use, accepted improper gifts, dispensed special privileges and favours to individuals with whom he had a personal relationship, and sought to obstruct government investigations of his conduct”.

From BBC

She said nothing “harassing or improper” had occurred, and all three jurors volunteered their cellphone numbers when contacted.

“I feel confident that none of the 3 jurors with whom I spoke/met reported our interaction to Judge Olmedo as harassing or improper.”

Three staffing firms, for example, are under investigation by the Illinois Labor Department for concerns related to improper training at Ferrara Candy, the maker of SweeTarts and Jelly Belly jelly beans.

Fletcher is alleged to have acted in an "improper and/or confrontational manner" and used "abusive and/or insulting words" towards the match officials during the club's Premier League win over Brentford on 19 October.

From BBC

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impromptuimproper fraction