a proper role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a proper role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the appropriate or suitable function or position of someone or something in a particular context. Example: "In a team setting, each member must understand a proper role to ensure effective collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

We have an unrivalled voice, a proper role".

The Guardian

An active industrial policy requires a proper role from government".

The Guardian

A proper role for the county, state and federal governments would be to provide financing for this participatory approach.

The New York Times

Is predicting the votes of potential justices a proper role for either the president or the Senate?

The New York Times

It is a proper role for the federal government to fund character education programs all across America.

The New York Times

Many voters said they were alarmed by the bloodshed in the Middle East and distressed that the United States had not settled on a proper role.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Yet patients who value the information often value the advice, too, and that seems to me a very proper role for a physician to play".

The New York Times - Health

The question of a woman's proper role — onscreen and off — becomes a steady refrain, particularly with the introduction of Shahrzad, a legendary actress and the movie's third, most elusive face.

The New York Times

Mrs Gillan said officials would see if there was a correct and proper role for her, as secretary of state, to respond to a complaint from a Conservative MP.

BBC

Is there a useful or proper role for intellectuals and philosophers to fulfill in politics?

The New York Times - Books

As a result, the proper role of government in the future of the Internet is also misleading.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a proper role", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes 'proper' in that specific situation. For example, "A proper role for government in healthcare is a subject of ongoing debate."

Common error

Avoid assuming a universal understanding of what constitutes "proper". Instead, clarify the specific expectations or standards that define the appropriate function or position. For instance, avoid saying "education plays a proper role" without explaining the kind of role education should have.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a proper role" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It denotes the suitable or appropriate function, duty, or position something or someone should have in a given context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a proper role" is widely used to describe the appropriate or suitable function or position of something within a specific context. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in various sources, including news, scientific, and business contexts. When using this phrase, it's essential to define what constitutes 'proper' within that context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "an appropriate function" or "a suitable position" can be used depending on the intended nuance. Remember to avoid overgeneralizing the definition of "proper" and always clarify the specific expectations. This phrase's frequent use across diverse domains indicates its importance in effectively communicating responsibilities and expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an appropriate function

Replaces "role" with "function", emphasizing the task or activity performed.

a correct function

Emphasizes the accuracy of the assigned function.

a suitable position

Substitutes "role" with "position", highlighting the place or rank someone or something occupies.

a valid function

Emphasizes the legitimacy of the function or activity.

a fitting responsibility

Replaces "role" with "responsibility", stressing the duties or obligations involved.

a legitimate task

Highlights the lawfulness and allowability of the function.

an expected part

Focuses on the anticipated contribution or involvement.

a designated duty

Emphasizes the formal assignment of responsibilities.

a rightful place

Suggests an inherent or deserved position.

a due part

Indicates a fair and deserved share of contribution.

FAQs

How can I use "a proper role" in a sentence?

You can use "a proper role" to describe the appropriate function or position of something or someone in a given context. For example, "The government has "a proper role" in regulating industries to protect consumers".

What are some alternatives to saying "a proper role"?

Alternatives to "a proper role" include "an appropriate function", "a suitable position", or "a fitting responsibility", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "a proper role" or "the proper role"?

Both "a proper role" and "the proper role" are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "A proper role" refers to one instance of an appropriate function or position, while "the proper role" refers to a specific function or position that is considered appropriate in a particular context.

What's the difference between "a proper role" and "an important role"?

"A proper role" emphasizes the appropriateness or suitability of a function or position, while "an important role" highlights the significance or impact of that function or position. While something might be important, it may not be "proper" or ethical, and vice versa.