Improperly: meaning, definitions and examples

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improperly

 

[ ɪmˈprɒpəli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

used in a sentence

Not in a way that is correct or appropriate; incorrectly.

Synonyms

incorrectly, wrongly

Examples of usage

  • He was improperly dressed for the occasion.
  • The machine was improperly calibrated, causing errors in the results.
Context #2 | Adverb

used in a sentence

In a way that is not socially acceptable or morally right.

Synonyms

indecently, unacceptably

Examples of usage

  • She was accused of behaving improperly at the party.
  • The company was fined for improperly disposing of hazardous waste.

Translations

Translations of the word "improperly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imprópria

🇮🇳 गलत तरीके से

🇩🇪 unsachgemäß

🇮🇩 tidak benar

🇺🇦 неправильно

🇵🇱 niewłaściwie

🇯🇵 不適切に

🇫🇷 incorrectement

🇪🇸 incorrectamente

🇹🇷 yanlış bir şekilde

🇰🇷 부적절하게

🇸🇦 بشكل غير صحيح

🇨🇿 nesprávně

🇸🇰 nesprávne

🇨🇳 不当

🇸🇮 nepravilno

🇮🇸 ósamkvæmt

🇰🇿 дұрыс емес

🇬🇪 არასწორად

🇦🇿 səhv

🇲🇽 incorrectamente

Etymology

The word 'improperly' originated from the combination of the prefix 'im-' meaning 'not' and the word 'properly', which comes from the Latin 'proprius' meaning 'one's own, special'. The term has been in use since the 16th century, evolving to encompass both the notions of correctness and appropriateness.

See also: improper, properly, properness, property.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,953 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.