Properly: meaning, definitions and examples

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properly

 

[ ˈprɒp.ə.li ]

Adverb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adverb

in a correct or suitable way

In a manner that is appropriate or accurate. In a way that conforms to accepted standards or rules.

Synonyms

adequately, appropriately, correctly, suitably

Examples of usage

  • Make sure to properly secure the door before leaving the house.
  • She did not properly follow the instructions given to her.
Context #2 | Adverb

to a full extent or degree

Completely or thoroughly. In a way that leaves nothing unfinished or undone.

Synonyms

completely, entirely, fully, thoroughly

Examples of usage

  • I want to properly understand the instructions before starting the task.
  • The issue was not properly addressed by the management.

Translations

Translations of the word "properly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 adequadamente

🇮🇳 उचित रूप से

🇩🇪 ordnungsgemäß

🇮🇩 dengan benar

🇺🇦 належним чином

🇵🇱 prawidłowo

🇯🇵 適切に (tekisetsu ni)

🇫🇷 correctement

🇪🇸 adecuadamente

🇹🇷 uygun şekilde

🇰🇷 적절하게 (jeokjeolhage)

🇸🇦 بشكل صحيح (bishakl sahih)

🇨🇿 správně

🇸🇰 správne

🇨🇳 正确地 (zhèngquè de)

🇸🇮 pravilno

🇮🇸 réttilega

🇰🇿 дұрыс

🇬🇪 სწორად (sts'orad)

🇦🇿 düzgün

🇲🇽 adecuadamente

Etymology

The word 'properly' originated from the Middle English word 'propren' which means 'to be one's own, belong to oneself'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the idea of correctness and appropriateness. The adverb 'properly' has been used in the English language for centuries to indicate the correct or suitable way of doing something.

See also: improper, improperly, properness, property.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,308, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.