Proper: meaning, definitions and examples

Useful when referring to something that follows the rules or is socially acceptable.

• It's proper to say 'please' and 'thank you'
• The dress code for the event requires proper attire

Use when referring to something that is accurate or free from errors.

• The correct answer to the question is 42
• Make sure your calculations are correct

Best used when describing something that is suitable or fitting for a particular situation.

• Wearing a suit to a job interview is appropriate
• Her response to the situation was appropriate

Best when referring to something that meets the needs of a particular purpose or situation.

• The dress is suitable for a casual party
• He finally found a suitable place to live

Can describe something that is accurate, just, or morally good; often used in ethical or moral contexts.

• It is right to help those in need
• She made the right choice by standing up for what she believed in

Use when describing something that is right or suitable for a particular occasion or circumstance.

• A retirement party is a fitting way to say goodbye to a long-time employee
• It was a fitting end to an incredible season

Appropriate or suitable for a particular situation.

• It's important to wear proper attire to a formal event.
• She gave him a proper greeting when he entered the room.

Having a legitimate right to something, often related to ownership or position.

• He is the rightful heir to the throne.
• The rightful owner of the wallet was found.

Conforming to the law or to rules, or accepted as valid or genuine.

• The business is a legitimate enterprise.
• He has a legitimate claim to the property.

Limited to a particular group or not shared with others, often implying high status or privilege.

• They live in an exclusive neighborhood.
• This is an exclusive interview with the celebrity.

Used to single out an individual member of a specified group or class, often emphasizing specificity.

• I am looking for a particular book on the shelf.
• She was very particular about the way her clothes were folded.

Use this word when referring to something that is correct, suitable, or appropriate.

• Please use the proper tools for the job.
• She knows the proper way to set up the experiments.

This word emphasizes totality or wholeness and is often used when you want to stress that something is done to the fullest extent.

• The room was completely silent.
• They completely renovated the house.

This word is used to convey sincerity or to stress truthfulness.

• I truly appreciate your help.
• She is truly talented.

This word is often used to add emphasis and can be informal in tone.

• I'm really tired after that long day.
• He really likes that movie.

Use this word when you want to express precision or correctness in terms of detail or amount.

• She knew exactly what to say.
• What exactly do you mean by that?