a little improper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a little improper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is slightly inappropriate or not quite proper in a given context. Example: "While the joke was funny, it was a little improper for the formal setting we were in."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

For a sexy look, your clothing and accessories should be skimpy, suggestive, naughty, and more than a little improper.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

My improper story had concerned a little Australian girl and her vivid use of inappropriate language, so David told me a story about a child he had met at another public appearance.

Independent

As a younger man, my head was filled with such guidelines, but as I age, the lines between what I view as proper and improper have blurred, more than just a little.

Huffington Post

They traded a little more cautiously in technology issues, which were troubled by reports of improper accounting at Computer Associates.

The New York Times

To really annoy them if they do this to you often, say, "You used improper grammar when you said shoes, and your posture could go with a little, say, yoga.

WikiHow

Ferguson was charged with improper conduct after describing Webb as "definitely the best referee in the country" and saying "we hope it's our turn for a little bit of luck" two days before the game against Chelsea this month.

The Guardian - Sport

A little.

The New York Times

General Allen says there was no improper relationship and for his sake, let's hope that's the case, since adultery is a crime in the U.S military (this seems a little unreasonable, but that's beside the point).

Huffington Post

This meeting was "a completely improper use" of intelligence.

BBC

Is that a question improper to be asked?

Huffington Post

We used a uniform, improper prior for β.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a little improper", ensure the context clarifies the nature and extent of the impropriety. This helps the reader understand the specific nuance you intend to convey. For instance, you might say, "His joke was funny, but a little improper considering the solemnity of the occasion."

Common error

Avoid using "a little improper" when the situation warrants stronger language. Overusing this phrase for serious violations can undermine your credibility. If the act is truly egregious, opt for more direct terms like "highly inappropriate" or "completely unacceptable".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little improper" functions as an adjectival modifier, specifically intensifying the adjective "improper". It softens the impact of "improper", indicating a mild degree of inappropriateness. Ludwig confirms its usability and correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

28%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a little improper" denotes a mild departure from established standards of propriety. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and generally used in neutral to informal contexts, such as news, media, and general discussions. When writing, it's crucial to ensure the phrase adequately reflects the level of impropriety; for more severe cases, stronger language is recommended. Consider alternatives like "slightly inappropriate" to maintain precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly inappropriate

Emphasizes a mild degree of unsuitability or lack of appropriateness.

somewhat unsuitable

Highlights a certain degree of unfitness for a specific purpose or situation.

mildly indecent

Focuses on a small violation of accepted standards of decency.

a touch risqué

Suggests a hint of sexual suggestiveness or impropriety.

a bit out of line

Indicates that something has crossed a boundary of acceptable behavior.

slightly irregular

Implies a minor deviation from established rules or procedures.

somewhat incorrect

Highlights a certain degree of deviation from established rules or procedures.

a tad unconventional

Suggests a hint of not adhering to standard conventions.

a shade off-color

Focuses on a small violation of accepted standards of color or behaviour.

moderately unethical

Highlights a mild degree of deviation from standard ethics.

FAQs

How can I use "a little improper" in a sentence?

You can use "a little improper" to describe something that is slightly inappropriate or not quite proper. For example: "While the joke was funny, it was a little improper for the formal setting we were in".

What are some alternatives to saying "a little improper"?

Alternatives include "slightly inappropriate", "somewhat unsuitable", or "mildly indecent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a little improper" or "slightly inappropriate"?

Both "a little improper" and "slightly inappropriate" are valid. The choice depends on the context and the desired tone. "A little improper" might sound slightly less formal.

When should I avoid using the phrase "a little improper"?

Avoid using "a little improper" when the situation is severely inappropriate or unethical. In such cases, stronger terms like "highly inappropriate" or "completely unacceptable" are more fitting.