improperly

Language: en

🇺🇸 /ˌɪˈmprɑpɜrliː/

📖 Definitions

  1. adverb
    In a manner that is not correct, suitable, or appropriate; wrongly.; In a manner that is indecent, immoral, or socially unacceptable.; In a manner that does not conform to established rules, standards, or procedures.

🔗 Details

Word forms

Comparative: more improperly Superlative: most improperly

Collocations

improperly obtainedimproperly disposed ofimproperly dressedimproperly storedimproperly handledimproperly conducted

Derivatives

improperimproprietyproperlyproperimproprieties

Synonyms

incorrectlyinappropriatelywronglyunsuitablyunbecomingly

Antonyms

properlycorrectlyappropriately

Commonly confused

inappropriately
EN: 'Inappropriately' emphasizes unsuitability for a context, while 'improperly' emphasizes violation of rules, standards, or correct procedure.
incorrectly
EN: 'Incorrectly' focuses on factual or procedural error, while 'improperly' carries a stronger moral or ethical connotation of wrongdoing.

Spelling tips

EN: Remember the double 'p' in 'improperly' (from 'improper' + '-ly'). Do not write 'improperley' or 'improperally'.

💬 Examples

  1. The equipment was improperly installed, leading to a malfunction.

  2. He was accused of behaving improperly toward his colleagues.

  3. The funds were improperly allocated without board approval.