improper approach

USAGE SUMMARY

"improper approach" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to an approach (or strategy, plan, etc.) that is not appropriate or correct. For example, "The team's decision to cut costs by cutting corners was an improper approach that eventually led to the project's failure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

This isn't the first time West has been accused of an improper approach to sampling.

The Guardian - Music

The pre-inquest hearing at the high court on Tuesday also heard that a Foreign Office minister made an "improper approach" to Mrs Litvinenko while David Cameron was having talks with Vladimir Putin last month.

The Guardian

Dealing with the inspectors, the government of Iraq will also take into consideration their way of conduct, the intentions of those who are ill-intentioned amongst them, and their improper approach in showing respect to the people's national dignity, their independence and security, and their country's security, independence and sovereignty.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

the use of improper approaches during the planning of the extension programmes.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

The scarcity in quantity and improper approaches for isolation and purification of CSCs have become the major obstacles for great development in CSCs.

BMC Cancer

Radack pointed out that Lindh's father had already retained a lawyer for him, which made it improper to approach Lindh without approaching his counsel, too.

The New Yorker

However, several elastic ribs were damaged because of an improper folding approach, and, in consequence, the 12 elastic ribs were deployed simultaneously.

Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering

Often, contrasting results are attributable to improper normalization approaches which impair the objectivity of data.

Disease Markers

The company has previously been criticised for taking a laissez-faire approach towards improper use of the platform it provides.

Independent

Although computerized information systems are conventionally used to control production, applying a manual approach and improper logistical assignments typically reduces operating efficiency and increases customer service response time.

Information & Management

Although we appreciate the efforts by Penn and other universities to implement fair procedures, particularly in light of the financial sanctions threatened by OCR, we believe that OCR's approach exerts improper pressure upon universities to adopt procedures that do not afford fundamental fairness.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a failed strategy, use "improper approach" to highlight that the failure stemmed from an inappropriate method rather than a lack of effort or resources.

Common error

Be specific about why an approach is "improper". Instead of simply stating that a team used an "improper approach", explain which aspects were flawed and how they led to negative consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "improper approach" functions as a descriptor, modifying a noun to indicate that the method, strategy, or action being described is not correct, suitable, or appropriate for a given situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "improper approach" is a grammatically sound and commonly used descriptor, signifying that a method or strategy is incorrect or unsuitable. Ludwig AI validates its usability in English. Its usage spans various contexts, including news, science, and business, as exemplified by the provided sources. When using this phrase, it's important to be specific about why the approach is "improper" to avoid overly broad accusations. Alternatives such as "inappropriate method" or "incorrect strategy" can be considered depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inappropriate method

Emphasizes the unsuitability of the method used.

incorrect strategy

Focuses on the flawed nature of the chosen strategy.

flawed technique

Highlights the presence of defects or errors in the technique.

unsuitable procedure

Underscores the inappropriateness of the procedure for the task.

defective plan

Suggests that the plan has inherent weaknesses or faults.

erroneous tactic

Points out the mistake or error in the chosen tactic.

unjustified action

Emphasizes the lack of valid reasons or grounds for the action.

unacceptable conduct

Highlights that the conduct doesn't meet an established standard of acceptance.

questionable practice

Suggests that there are doubts or concerns about the validity or ethics of the practice.

irregular procedure

Focuses on the procedure not conforming to rules or customs.

FAQs

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

You can use "improper approach" to describe a method or strategy that is unsuitable or flawed. For example, "The company's "improper approach" to marketing led to a significant loss in revenue."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "improper approach"?

Similar phrases include "inappropriate method", "incorrect strategy", or "flawed technique". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "improper approach" or "wrong approach"?

"Improper approach" and "wrong approach" are similar, but "improper approach" often implies a violation of rules or standards, while "wrong approach" simply suggests an ineffective or misguided method.

What's the difference between "improper approach" and "unethical approach"?

"Improper approach" refers to something that is unsuitable or flawed, while "unethical approach" suggests a violation of moral principles or professional standards. The "unethical approach" involves moral considerations beyond mere effectiveness or suitability.