an improper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an improper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not proper or suitable in a given context. Example: "His behavior at the formal event was considered an improper display of disrespect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then an improper parking job.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Is that an improper suggestion?" "Yes".

The Guardian - Books

The F.E.C. viewed the film as an improper "electioneering communication".

The New Yorker

The defensive manager appeals that Irwin is an improper batter.

The New York Times

"Holocaust," says Lanzmann, "is an improper word, an inappropriate word.

The Guardian - Film

But he strongly denied having behaved in an "improper" way.

The New York Times

Prosecutors had cited that expense as an improper personal deduction.

The New York Times

"We agreed on an angle that would eliminate the potential for anyone to make an improper gesture or hold up an improper poster behind us," Lundquist said.

The New York Times

"I think it is an improper use of corporate assets to pay their debt, just as it was an improper use of board control to endorse their borrowing".

The New York Times

No one could deny that there was an improper motive — anti-gay prejudice — underlying DOMA.

The New Yorker

European allies howled that it constituted an improper attempt to apply American law in other countries.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific action or behavior, use "an improper" before nouns that define the action, such as "an improper use of funds" or "an improper disposal method".

Common error

While grammatically sound, "an improper" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider alternatives like "wrong" or "not right" when speaking with friends or family.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an improper" functions as a determiner and adjective modifying a noun. It describes something that deviates from accepted standards, rules, or norms, as seen in Ludwig's examples like "an improper use of corporate assets" or "an improper diet of goldfish".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

34%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an improper" serves to describe something that deviates from established norms or expectations. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and very common. While versatile, it is more suited for neutral to formal contexts such as news reports, scientific writing, or professional documents, as demonstrated by the examples from The New York Times and various scientific journals. When used in casual conversation, consider simpler alternatives to avoid sounding overly formal. The phrase conveys disapproval or highlights a deviation and the best practice in writing is to combine the phrase with the element you want to flag as improper (e.g. an improper diet).

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inappropriate

Focuses more on the lack of suitability or appropriateness for a specific situation.

an inappropriate

Similar to 'improper', but can also refer to something tactless or impolite.

an unsuitable

Highlights the lack of fitness or compatibility for a particular purpose or context.

an unacceptable

Highlights that something doesn't meet the required standards or expectations.

an incorrect

Emphasizes the presence of errors or deviations from what is right or accurate.

an erroneous

Stresses the presence of a mistake or error, often in a more formal or technical context.

an unfit

Underscores a lack of qualification or capability for a role or purpose.

an invalid

Implies something lacks legal or official force; not recognized.

an undue

Suggests something is excessive, unwarranted or disproportionate.

an unseemly

Focuses on a lack of decorum or good taste, often in public behavior.

FAQs

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

You can use "an improper" to describe something that is not suitable or appropriate, such as "an improper method" or "an improper suggestion."

What are some alternatives to saying "an improper"?

You can use alternatives like "an inappropriate", "an unsuitable", or "an incorrect" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to replace "an improper" with a simpler term in casual conversation?

No, but it's generally recommended to consider your audience. While "an improper" is grammatically correct, simpler terms might make your language more accessible.

What is the difference between "an improper" and "an inappropriate"?

Both are very similar, but "an improper" suggests something that is not in accordance with rules or standards, while "an inappropriate" often refers to something unsuitable or out of place in a specific situation.