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Impropriety Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impropriety

[หŒษชmprษ™หˆpraษชษ™ti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

social behavior

Lack of propriety; the quality of being inappropriate or improper.

Synonyms

immodesty, inappropriateness, indecency.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impropriety

When referring to behavior or actions that are not socially acceptable, especially in a formal or professional setting.

  • His impropriety during the meeting shocked everyone
inappropriateness

When talking about actions, comments, or behaviors that are not suitable or fitting for a particular situation.

  • The inappropriateness of his joke during the funeral upset many attendees
indecency

Used for actions, speech, or behavior that is morally or legally offensive, especially in a sexual or vulgar context, often carrying a stronger negative connotation.

  • His indecency in public led to his arrest
immodesty

When describing behavior or attitudes that lack humility or showcase an excessive amount of pride, often considered socially inappropriate.

  • Her immodesty in discussing her achievements was off-putting

Examples of usage

  • The politician's impropriety was exposed by the media.
  • Her impropriety at the formal event shocked the guests.
Context #2 | Noun

legal context

An incorrect or inappropriate act or remark in an official or professional situation.

Synonyms

malpractice, misconduct, wrongdoing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impropriety

Used to refer to behavior or actions that are not in accordance with accepted standards or social norms, especially in a moral or professional sense.

  • There were claims of financial impropriety within the organization
  • His impropriety in public gatherings made him unpopular
misconduct

Refers to inappropriate, unethical, or unlawful actions, often within professional or organizational contexts.

  • He was dismissed from his job due to gross misconduct
  • Allegations of misconduct were made against the company's CEO
wrongdoing

Broad term referring to any action that is morally, legally, or ethically wrong.

  • He was held accountable for his wrongdoing
  • The investigation revealed significant wrongdoing in the department
malpractice

Typically used in professional settings, especially in medicine or law, to describe negligent or unethical behavior.

  • The doctor faced charges of medical malpractice
  • The lawyer was sued for legal malpractice

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer was accused of impropriety during the trial.
  • The company's impropriety led to a investigation by the authorities.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Social Norms

  • Improprieties can vary widely across different cultures; what might be seen as improper in one society could be accepted in another.
  • In many social settings, dressing appropriately is a form of propriety; failing to do so may lead to perceptions of impropriety.
  • Certain actions during formal events, such as inappropriate jokes or casual language, are often considered improprieties.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters who engage in impropriety often face social consequences, highlighting the importance of social decorum.
  • Famous works, such as Jane Austen's novels, often explore themes of propriety and its violations, showcasing societal expectations.
  • Impropriety is a common conflict in Shakespeareโ€™s plays, demonstrating the tension between personal desire and social expectations.

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, impropriety can refer to unethical behavior by professionals, such as lawyers or politicians, leading to scandals.
  • Public figures can risk their careers due to allegations of impropriety, which can be defined broadly, including financial misconduct.
  • Courts sometimes examine impropriety in cases where ethics and law intersect, influencing verdicts and outcomes.

Psychology

  • Impropriety can trigger social shame, leading individuals to modify their behavior to fit group expectations.
  • The perception of impropriety often comes from cognitive biases, where people judge others based on their cultural beliefs.
  • Engaging in impropriety can sometimes stem from a desire to rebel against established norms, showcasing individual identity.

Origin of 'impropriety'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'impropriety' comes from the Latin word 'improprius,' which means 'not appropriate.'
  • It was first used in the English language around the late 17th century, reflecting evolving social norms.
  • The prefix 'im-' suggests a negation, turning 'propriety' (proper behavior) into its opposite.

The word 'impropriety' originated in the mid-17th century from the Latin word 'improprietas', which means 'inappropriateness'. Over time, it has been used to describe actions or behaviors that are considered improper or inappropriate in social, professional, or legal contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,530, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.