bounds of propriety

USAGE SUMMARY

"bounds of propriety" is correct and usable in written English.
Generally, it is used to refer to a certain level of decorum or politeness that is expected from certain people or in certain situations. For example, "In a professional setting, it is important to stay within the bounds of propriety to maintain a respectful and courteous atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

That was widely decried as an overstepping of the bounds of propriety, and the Bush campaign pulled back.

The New York Times

His assault on American puritanism — what Gilbert Seldes called "the habits-ofrabbits school of songwriting" — rarely transgressed the bounds of propriety, deploying etiquette even as it mocked it.

The New Yorker

But he was not complaining too much yesterday after a court ruled that remarks made at his trial last year "exceeded the bounds of propriety".

The New York Times

Once, moviemakers considered anything longer than seven minutes -- the credits for "Titanic" and "Waterworld" were in that range -- to be pushing the bounds of propriety and audience patience.

The New York Times

His assault on American puritanism what Gilbert Seldes called "the habits-ofrabbits school of songwriting"—rarely transgressed the bounds of propriety, deploying etiquette even as it mocked it.

The New Yorker

In retrospect, Mr. Obama may have been obliquely referring to  his planned trip when he suggested that it is not beyond the bounds of propriety for the country to mark the anniversary of bin Laden's death.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Mr. Vecchione has been accused by defense lawyers and former colleagues of overstepping the bounds of legal propriety.

The New York Times

He is prepared to step outside the bounds of royal propriety to interfere in the life of the country, but when asked to defend his intrusion he becomes again the heir to the throne who must avoid controversy.

The Guardian - Opinion

The techniques discussed (and later used) would seem, the agent said, "to stretch beyond the bounds of legal propriety" and would very likely "shock the conscience of any legal body looking at using the results of the interrogations or possibly even the interrogators".

Huffington Post

What she needed was a way to do this without transgressing the bounds of decorum, of propriety, of good taste, of sound judgment, fairness, and equanimity.

The New Yorker

Does the former, bound by doctrines of propriety, rituals, and government, oppose naturalness and thwart all aspiration toward a life of "carefree wandering"?

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bounds of propriety" when referring to the need for ethical considerations within the legal field, ensuring actions remain within the framework of justice.

Common error

Avoid using "bounds of propriety" in casual conversation or informal writing; it can sound overly formal and stilted. Opt for simpler phrases like "social norms" or "acceptable behavior" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bounds of propriety" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a preposition (e.g., "within the bounds of propriety") or as a subject complemented by a verb. As demonstrated by Ludwig, its role is to define and set limits for acceptable behavior.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bounds of propriety" is a noun phrase used to describe the limits of acceptable behavior, decorum, or ethical standards. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability in written English. It is most frequently used in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. When writing, remember that overusing "bounds of propriety" in informal settings can make your tone seem stilted. By understanding its grammatical function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use "bounds of propriety" to enhance your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

proper behavior

A simpler and more direct way of referring to acceptable conduct.

limits of decorum

Focuses more on formal behavior and etiquette.

appropriate conduct

Refers to behavior that is suitable or fitting for a particular situation.

rules of etiquette

Emphasizes the specific rules governing polite behavior.

standards of decency

Highlights the aspect of moral acceptability and respectability.

acceptable conduct

A more general term referring to behavior that is considered appropriate.

ethical boundaries

Emphasizes the moral and ethical limits of behavior.

legal constraints

Focuses on the legal limitations and restrictions on actions.

social norms

Refers to the unwritten rules and expectations of a society.

customary behavior

Highlights behaviors that are traditionally accepted within a group.

FAQs

How can I use "bounds of propriety" in a sentence?

You can use "bounds of propriety" to describe actions that adhere to or violate expected social or ethical standards. For example: "His behavior went far beyond the "bounds of propriety" when he publicly criticized his colleagues."

What are some alternatives to "bounds of propriety"?

Alternatives include "limits of decorum", "acceptable conduct", or "standards of decency", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to overstep the "bounds of propriety"?

To overstep the "bounds of propriety" means to act in a way that violates established social or ethical norms, often causing offense or scandal.

How do "bounds of propriety" differ from "legal boundaries"?

"Bounds of propriety" refer to social and ethical norms, while "legal constraints" refer to laws and regulations. An action can be within legal boundaries but still violate the "bounds of propriety".