High propriety

USAGE SUMMARY

'High propriety' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a high level of politeness and decorum. For example: "The guests at the dinner were expected to maintain a high propriety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

HE was a modern-minded, emotionally needy prince trapped in a stultifying world of tradition, ceremony and high propriety.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is not necessarily rare for actors — male actors, that is — to take on the role of Wilde's arch parody of a paragon of high Victorian propriety.

The New York Times

She responded with actorly reflexes, offering an upturned chin, but making sure all the while to place her program discreetly over the seam of her pencil skirt, which was slit, in her view, a little too high for propriety.

The New York Times

In a letter to a reporter in 1983, Bronson Chanler, Mrs. Cutting's great-nephew, recalled visiting the house between 1936 and 1941, when it was still a bastion of high Victorian propriety.

The New York Times

With her high regard for propriety and her tendency to speak in aphorisms, Mrs. Culver is a distant relation of the imperious Lady Bracknell, from Wilde's "Importance of Being Earnest".

The New York Times

When James calls Osmond "a student of the exquisite," whose "ideal was a conception of high prosperity and propriety," was he glancing in the mirror at his own ambitions, fearful of what harm they might, if brandished too freely, inflict on other selves?

The New Yorker

It added that more mainstream parties on both sides of the political spectrum need to change as well by ensuring high standards of propriety and ethics and by articulating what it termed "positive and optimistic economic and political solutions" rather than what it said was populist rhetoric.

Wikipedia

" In his preamble to the new ministerial code, David Cameron says: "People want their politicians to uphold the highest standards of propriety.

The Guardian

And he concludes, "I may do what I please in private," adding, "but I must ring myself with a wall of propriety so high no one can see in".

The New York Times - Books

Her books, such as "The Railway Children," on the surface all British propriety and high tea, are in fact quite loyal to the honesty and directness of children, to their truest needs and modes of thinking.

The New Yorker

It doesn't take much to see the logic behind that campaign – fundamentalist religion places high value on sexual propriety so it is an easy score to portray or smear one's enemies as hypocrites or perverts.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing professional expectations or societal norms, use "High propriety" to emphasize the importance of adhering to established ethical and behavioral standards.

Common error

Avoid using "High propriety" merely to describe politeness. While it includes decorum, it primarily implies strict adherence to ethical, moral, or legally defined standards of conduct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "High propriety" functions as a noun phrase, where 'high' modifies the noun 'propriety'. It describes the degree or extent to which something adheres to accepted standards of behavior or morals. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "High propriety" denotes a significant adherence to established standards of conduct, ethics, or legal correctness. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically sound, although relatively rare in usage. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific, and formal/business contexts, it emphasizes ethical behavior and adherence to standards. To avoid misinterpretations, ensure it conveys more than mere politeness. Alternatives include phrases like "strict decorum" and "impeccable ethical conduct", offering nuanced options for similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Strict decorum

Focuses more on outward behavior and adherence to social norms.

Elevated standards of decency

Emphasizes morality and ethical conduct.

Impeccable ethical conduct

Highlights the flawless and irreproachable nature of the behavior.

Rigorous ethical standards

Focuses on the demanding and uncompromising nature of the ethical principles.

Exemplary integrity

Stresses the moral soundness and honesty of the actions.

Uncompromising ethical behavior

Indicates a steadfast refusal to deviate from ethical principles.

Exceptional moral rectitude

Highlights the correctness and uprightness of moral character.

High moral standards

A more general term indicating adherence to ethical principles.

Unyielding principles

Emphasizes the firmness and inflexibility of the guiding beliefs.

Exalted sense of ethics

Highlights the superior or elevated understanding of ethical principles.

FAQs

What does "High propriety" mean?

"High propriety" refers to a strong adherence to established standards of behavior, ethics, or legal correctness. It goes beyond simple politeness and implies a commitment to moral and ethical uprightness.

How can I use "High propriety" in a sentence?

You can use "High propriety" to describe situations where strict adherence to rules or ethical standards is expected. For example: "The company maintains a policy of "high propriety" in all its financial dealings."

What are some alternatives to "High propriety"?

Alternatives to "High propriety" include "strict decorum", "impeccable ethical conduct", or "exceptional moral rectitude". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "High propriety" formal or informal language?

"High propriety" is considered formal language, often used in professional, academic, or legal contexts. It is not typically used in casual conversation.