Propriety Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
propriety
[prษหprajษชti ]
Definitions
social behavior
Conformity to established standards of good or proper behavior; appropriateness.
Synonyms
correctness, decency, decorum, etiquette.
Examples of usage
- It is important to maintain propriety in professional settings.
- She was criticized for not following the propriety of the event.
legal
The condition of being right, proper, or suitable; accordance with what is socially acceptable.
Synonyms
appropriateness, legality, legitimacy, validity.
Examples of usage
- The lawyer argued for the propriety of the contract.
- The judge questioned the propriety of the defendant's actions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Social Customs
- In the Victorian era, propriety was strictly enforced, dictating how people dressed, talked, and behaved in public.
- Different cultures have varying norms of propriety, affecting dress codes, greetings, and public interactions.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Immanuel Kant linked propriety with ethics, asserting that proper behavior is essential for moral responsibility.
- The concept has been debated in various philosophical contexts, especially concerning individual freedom versus societal norms.
Literature
- Classic novels often explore themes of propriety; 'Pride and Prejudice' highlights the importance of manners in social standing.
- Many characters in Shakespeare's works grapple with societal expectations of propriety, revealing the tension between personal desires and public behavior.
Psychology
- Studies show that people often judge others based on perceived propriety, influencing social relationships and career opportunities.
- Lack of propriety can lead to social penalties, affecting how well one fits into their cultural environment.
Origin of 'propriety'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'proprietas', meaning 'ownership' or 'fitness', indicating a sense of something belonging to the right place.
- It made its way into Middle English from Old French, reflecting the importance of social standards in medieval society.
The word 'propriety' originated from the Latin word 'proprietas', which means 'fitness' or 'suitability'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century with the meaning of 'conformity to social standards'. Over time, 'propriety' has come to be associated with proper behavior, etiquette, and correctness in various contexts.