Improper: meaning, definitions and examples

Something that is not suitable or correct according to social or moral standards. Often used for behaviors or actions.

• It is improper to speak loudly in the library
• Wearing casual clothes to a formal event is considered improper

Something that is not fitting or suitable for a particular situation. Used in a variety of contexts, from casual to formal.

• Telling inappropriate jokes at work can get you in trouble
• His comments were inappropriate for a family gathering

Something that is morally or sexually offensive; not modest or proper. Generally used with a negative connotation.

• Exposing oneself in public is indecent behavior
• The movie was banned for its indecent content

Behaviors or actions that are inappropriate or not proper in a social context. Often used in formal or literary contexts.

• Laughing loudly at a funeral is unseemly
• His unseemly conduct at the dinner party shocked everyone

Actions that go against professional or moral standards. Typically used in professional or academic settings.

• Cheating on exams is unethical
• Insider trading is considered highly unethical

Used when something is not following accepted rules or standards, often in a moral sense.

• It was improper for the teacher to accept such an expensive gift from a student
• His behavior at the meeting was highly improper

Used when something does not meet the necessary criteria or conditions for a specific purpose, often regarding compatibility or practicality.

• This equipment is unsuitable for the project requirements
• The book contains unsuitable content for young readers

Used for something unsuitable or not proper in a particular situation, often socially or contextually.

• Wearing jeans to a formal wedding is inappropriate
• Her remarks were inappropriate given the seriousness of the situation

Describes something that does not match well with another thing, often used to highlight lack of harmony or compatibility.

• The lightweight shoes were unsuited for hiking
• The new software is unsuited to the old computer system

Refers to someone or something that is not suitable or qualified for a particular purpose, often implying incapacity or deficiency.

• He was deemed unfit for military service due to his health condition
• The old house was unfit for habitation