English Dictionary

Definition of “improper

improper (ɪmˈprɒpəPronunciation for improper

Definitions

adjective

  1. lacking propriety; not seemly or fitting
  2. unsuitable for a certain use or occasion; inappropriate  ⇒ an improper use for a tool 
  3. irregular or abnormal

Alternative Forms

imˈproperly adverb imˈproperness noun

Usage examples

  • One of the Lauterbach brothers, surely; Gert, the doctor, struck off the register for improper distribution of pharmaceuticals.
    Clive Barker, SACRAMENT (2001)
  • It is unlikely that this trend is the result of an improper usage of tools.
    Business Today (1998)
  • Todd White, Mr. Lyons's lawyer, said last night that there was nothing improper in his client's contacts with city officials.
    Globe and Mail (2003)
  • Officials at the £15,000-a-year school insist dark-haired Miss Lehman had not formed an improper relationship.
    Sun, News of the World (2002)
  • Bliss, unlike Chapin, `considered it improper to spend social time with artists '.
    Susie Gilbert and Jay Shir, A TALE OF FOUR HOUSES: Opera at Covent Garden, La Scala, Vienna and the Met since 1945 (2003)

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