at the proper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the proper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something being done or placed in an appropriate or suitable manner or location. Example: "Make sure to arrive at the proper time for the meeting to avoid any delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At the proper time.

The New Yorker

Is its fuel taxed at the proper level?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Both are elements you call on at the proper time.

The New York Times - Arts

The safety board said that the plane was at the proper speed, descending at the proper rate and on the proper course "down to about 200-400 feet".

The New York Times

"I would be interested in it at the proper time," Shelby said.

The Washington Post

Pruning hydrangeas at the proper time each year is the key to flowering.

The New York Times - Style

It must be applied to the right kind of crop at the proper time.

Britannica

Both versions must reach their destination at the proper time for the message to be decoded.

Princeton University

It is better for thee to speak at the proper time.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

And when we look at the proper evidence, the story isn't quite so scary.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We would expect at the proper time to hold a hearing on their findings".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "at the proper", ensure that the context clearly defines what constitutes 'proper' in that situation. For example, specify "at the proper temperature" or "at the proper angle" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid vague uses of "at the proper" without clarifying the standard or criteria for 'proper'. Instead of saying "Administer the medication at the proper time", specify "Administer the medication at the proper time: 8 AM, 12 PM, and 6 PM daily".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the proper" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or verb. According to Ludwig, it indicates that an action or condition should occur in a suitable or appropriate manner or time, as seen in examples like "at the proper time" or "at the proper angle."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

12%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at the proper" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to emphasize the importance of suitability, correctness, or appropriateness. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including news, academia, and general writing. To ensure clarity, it's best to specify what constitutes 'proper' in a given situation. Common alternatives include "at the appropriate" and "at the correct". By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "at the proper" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the appropriate

Replaces "proper" with "appropriate", suggesting suitability for a specific purpose or situation.

at the correct

Substitutes "proper" with "correct", emphasizing accuracy and adherence to standards.

at the right

Uses "right" instead of "proper", indicating something that is most suitable or ideal.

in the suitable

Rephrases "at the proper" using "suitable", highlighting the quality of being well-suited.

in the fitting

Employs "fitting" to replace "proper", emphasizing appropriateness and harmony with the situation.

at the apt

Uses "apt" instead of "proper", suggesting a natural or inherent suitability.

at the opportune

Replaces "proper" with "opportune", focusing on the timeliness and advantageous nature of the situation.

at the felicitous

Substitutes "proper" with "felicitous", implying a pleasing and fortunate appropriateness.

under the right

Rephrases "at the proper" with "under the right", indicating suitable conditions or circumstances.

at the designated

Uses "designated" instead of "proper", highlighting a specific or appointed setting or action.

FAQs

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

The phrase "at the proper" is used to indicate that something should be done or placed in the appropriate or most suitable manner or location. For example, "Ensure the ingredients are mixed at the proper temperature" or "The tool must be used at the proper angle".

What phrases are similar to "at the proper"?

You can use alternatives such as "at the appropriate", "at the correct", or "at the right" depending on the context.

When is it best to use "at the proper" in writing?

Use "at the proper" when you want to emphasize that timing, method, or placement is crucial for a successful outcome. It's especially useful in instructions, guidelines, and when describing procedures.

Is there a difference between "at the proper time" and "at the right time"?

While similar, "at the proper time" often implies a more formal or regulated context, suggesting a specific protocol or standard. "At the right time" is more general and can refer to any opportune moment.