at a proper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a proper" is not correct in standard written English as it lacks clarity and context.
It may be used in contexts where you want to indicate something is done in an appropriate manner, but it typically requires additional words for clarity. Example: "We need to ensure that the meeting is conducted at a proper time to accommodate everyone."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At a proper, big newspaper.

Independent

Much more of this, and we're looking at a proper crisis.

The Guardian - Business

Tallent will have another not-run at a proper podium celebration.

The Guardian - Sport

And he implied that the euro was trading at a proper level.

The New York Times

"Some people would never dream of crossing a road except at a proper crossing," she said.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Only the suitable polysaccharide at a proper concentration would endow the gel with the excellent quality.

Carbohydrate Polymers

The optimum thermal efficiency of 99.1% was achieved at a proper mesh number.

International Journal of Refrigeration

Those who also operate restaurants typically bring prepared food to a cart equipped to keep it at a proper temperature.

The New York Times

It said that gleaning information about collateral was difficult, and that arriving at a proper valuation was, too.

The New York Times

"We need to press forward with the political solution; we need to look at a proper transition from Assad.

Independent

"The reason behind these inflations is something else which I will explain at a proper time," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at a proper", ensure you clarify what makes the context "proper". For instance, specify "at a proper temperature" or "at a proper time" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "at a proper" without specifying the criteria for "proper". This can make your writing unclear. Replace it with phrases like "at an appropriate level" or "at a suitable stage" to ensure precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a proper" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or verb, indicating a specific condition or state of being. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is not correct in standard written English as it lacks clarity and context, but it shows various examples of usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at a proper" is frequently encountered, especially in scientific and news contexts. Despite its common usage, Ludwig AI points out that it lacks clarity and precision in standard written English. To improve clarity, it's best to specify what makes a situation "proper," such as temperature, time, or distance. Alternatives like "at an appropriate" or "at a suitable" can also be considered to enhance grammatical correctness and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at an appropriate

Replaces "proper" with "appropriate", offering a more standard alternative.

at a suitable

Uses "suitable" instead of "proper", indicating something that fits the requirements.

at the correct

Focuses on accuracy and precision rather than general suitability.

at the right

Emphasizes timing and correctness, implying the best possible choice.

in a fitting

Shifts the structure to use "fitting", which conveys appropriateness.

in a befitting

Similar to "fitting", but suggests something that is especially suitable or dignified.

under the right

Suggests conditions or circumstances being favorable.

given the right

Implies a conditional appropriateness based on specific criteria.

with the correct

Highlights the presence of a necessary condition for correctness.

subject to appropriate

Indicates that something is conditional upon being appropriate.

FAQs

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

While "at a proper" is used, it's often better to specify what makes it "proper". For example, "at a proper temperature" or "at a proper time" is clearer. Consider using alternatives like "at an appropriate" or "at a suitable".

What are some alternatives to "at a proper"?

Alternatives include "at an appropriate", "at a suitable", "at the correct", or "at the right" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "at a proper"?

While commonly used, "at a proper" lacks clarity on its own. It's better to clarify the context, such as "at a proper distance" or consider using alternatives like "at an appropriate" level.

Which is better, "at a proper time" or "at an appropriate time"?

"At an appropriate time" is generally preferred as it is grammatically standard and clearer. "At a proper time" is used, but lacks precision. Consider clarifying why the time is "proper".