Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

properly

American  
[prop-er-lee] / ˈprɒp ər li /

adverb

  1. in a way that is appropriate to the purpose or circumstances; suitably.

    Students should ensure that a current valid parking permit is properly displayed on their vehicle.

  2. correctly.

    His recent statement gave the wrong impression and does not properly reflect where he stands on the issue.

  3. in a way that conforms to established standards of behavior or manners.

    They usually dress very properly, but sometimes a bit daringly, hoping to start the latest new trend.


Other Word Forms

  • unproperly adverb

Etymology

Origin of properly

proper ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"This win has given us the perfect excuse to celebrate together properly," said Paul.

From BBC

The claim alleges that Kelley-Eklund and Osborn failed to properly examine and handle the grenade, and says Lemus was not expecting a live device to be present at the training center.

From Los Angeles Times

Eating properly cooked fish poses little risk because the worms are already dead.

From Science Daily

Mitochondria act as the cell's energy generators, and when they do not function properly, tissues that require high energy, such as the brain, are damaged.

From Science Daily

He says he has barely spoken to his uncle since major protests in 2022 following the death in custody of a young woman, Mahsa Amini, who was accused of not wearing the compulsory hijab properly.

From BBC