Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
improper application
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "improper application" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is being used or applied incorrectly or in a way that is not appropriate. Example: The failure of the project can be attributed to the team's improper application of the new software.
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
26 human-written examples
In early 2000, Joe Lusk, then the chief engineer for external tanks at NASA'S Marshall Space Flight Center, wrote two memorandums listing some 30 "high risk" problems involving the external tanks, including "material deficiency" and "improper application" of foam.
News & Media
Generally speaking, "maladministration" means poor or failed administration, through the improper application of the rules such as administrative irregularities, unfairness, discrimination, abuse of power, lack or refusal of information and unnecessary delay.
News & Media
Reliance upon the improper application of Rule 42(a) to petitioner in this case, makes it unnecessary to discuss the issue raised in Green v. United States, 356 U.S. 165, 193, 78 S.Ct.
Academia
Based on comparison of the behavior of bolts that had been lubricated in different ways with antiseize material, it was concluded that the bolts failed because of improper application of the antiseize material, which led to development of overloads.
Science
But the two lists included in the memorandum written in 2000 show that quality control problems with foam were among the most pressing issues and cite "material deficiency" and "improper application" of foam, including a "lack of understanding of sensitivity of foam performance to changes in foam processing, material component changes and environments".
News & Media
He said that despite the state's opinion, his client would continue to fight the trustees' ruling on permits or seek the money lost on land that he said was effectively being condemned by the town through improper application of state and local law.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
34 human-written examples
However, improper applications of this learning approach may also lead to inefficient learning and even reduced learning effectiveness.
Science
This simple approach has helped Microsoft identify hundreds of invalid experiments and improper applications of formulas (such as using a formula that assumes all measurements are independent when they are not).
News & Media
Surface waters may also receive unwanted amounts of pesticides due to improper cleaning of spray equipment or improper applications in residential areas [5, 6].
It has abandoned the Quranic principles of justice-based governance in favor of discriminate and grossly improper applications of Islamic law.
News & Media
335, related to improper applicant.
Academia
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When discussing technical or procedural errors, use "improper application" to clearly indicate that the fault lies in how something was applied, rather than with the thing itself.
Common error
Avoid using "improper application" when you mean 'inappropriate application'. "Improper" refers to something done incorrectly, while 'inappropriate' refers to something unsuitable for the situation. For example, "improper application" of a tool implies it was used wrongly; 'inappropriate application' suggests the wrong tool was chosen.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "improper application" functions as a noun phrase that describes a situation where something is applied or used incorrectly. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is suitable for indicating errors in method or technique.
Frequent in
Science
40%
News & Media
30%
Academia
20%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
3%
Wiki
4%
Formal & Business
3%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "improper application" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase for describing incorrect or inappropriate usage. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability. It's frequently found in scientific, news, and academic contexts. When writing, ensure you distinguish it from similar terms like 'inappropriate use', as 'improper' signifies an error in the application method itself, while 'inappropriate' suggests the wrong choice for the situation. Remember, while this phrase is flexible, precise language always enhances clarity.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
incorrect usage
Focuses on the act of using something wrongly, similar to improper application.
inappropriate use
Highlights the unsuitability of the usage, aligning with the meaning of improper application.
flawed application
Highlights that the application process has defects or imperfections.
faulty implementation
Emphasizes errors in the carrying out or putting into effect of something.
defective execution
Highlights the flawed or deficient nature of the execution process.
erroneous administration
Implies a mistake in the way something is managed or governed.
unsuitable handling
Focuses on the inappropriate way something is managed or dealt with.
deficient utilization
Indicates that the manner of using something is lacking or insufficient.
imperfect administration
Highlights the imperfect or flawed nature of the administration process.
unskillful deployment
Implies a lack of skill or expertise in the way something is deployed or used.
FAQs
How can "improper application" affect results?
An "improper application" /s/improper+application can lead to a range of negative outcomes, from minor inefficiencies to complete failure, depending on the context. It suggests a mismatch between the method and the intended purpose.
What are some synonyms for "improper application"?
Alternatives to "improper application" /s/improper+application include "incorrect usage", "faulty implementation", or "inappropriate use", depending on the nuance you want to convey.
Is "improper application" a formal or informal term?
"Improper application" /s/improper+application is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's most commonly found in technical, legal, or official documents. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding language.
What's the difference between "improper application" and "negligent application"?
"Improper application" /s/improper+application indicates something was done incorrectly, perhaps due to lack of knowledge or skill. "Negligent application" implies a failure to exercise the appropriate level of care or attention, suggesting a more serious breach of duty.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested