improper
word
Definition
Not suitable or correct for a situation; behaving or done in a way that is not appropriate or acceptable.
Usage & Nuances
Common in formal or semi-formal contexts. Often used to criticize actions, behavior, or methods that violate social rules or standards (e.g., 'improper conduct', 'improper use'). Not as strong as 'unethical' or 'illegal', but suggests something isn't right.
Spanish: inapropiado - incorrectoPortuguese (BR): impróprio - incorretoPortuguese (PT): impróprio - incorretoChinese (Simplified): 不当 - 不恰当Chinese (Traditional): 不當 - 不恰當Hindi: अनुचितArabic: غير مناسب - غير لائقBengali: অনুচিত - অপযুক্তRussian: неправильный - неподобающий - неуместныйJapanese: 不適切な - 不正なVietnamese: không phù hợp - không đúng mựcKorean: 부적절한 - 부적합한Turkish: uygunsuz - hatalıUrdu: نامناسب - غیر مناسبIndonesian: tidak pantas - tidak layak
Example Sentences
She was punished for her improper behavior at school.
basic
If you notice anything improper at work, report it to your manager.
natural
His joke at dinner was considered improper, so people felt uncomfortable.
natural
Don’t use improper language in front of children.
natural
It is improper to talk loudly in the library.
basic
Using your phone during the exam is improper.
basic