in proper condition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in proper condition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is functioning correctly or is in a suitable state for use. Example: "Before we proceed with the project, we need to ensure that all equipment is in proper condition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

If its system had been in proper condition, the explosion would not have occurred".

The New York Times

The plane was last inspected 10 days ago and found to be "in proper condition," Ignatius Ong, CEO of Malaysia Airlines subsidiary Firefly airlines, said at a news conference.

Independent

"The bylaws of a condominium typically provide that every unit owner is required to maintain their unit in proper condition, that no nuisance is permitted on the property, and that no use or practice is allowed that is either a source of annoyance to residents or interferes with the peaceful possession or proper use of another apartment," Mr. Luxemburg said.

The New York Times

"D.O.I.'s investigation revealed the profoundly disturbing and sobering realization that a senior inspector responsible for ensuring that cranes operating in New York City are in proper condition and are operated by qualified individuals is charged with selling out his own integrity in a way that compromised public safety," Ms. Hearn said.

The New York Times

The authorities have opened an investigation into whether the driver, who died in the crash, was at fault; whether the bus was in proper condition; whether there were adequate signs on the road signaling construction work; and whether the guardrail over which the bus plunged met safety standards, the news agency ANSA reported.

The New York Times

Ensure the gear is in proper condition.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The Dutch museum director, who said he first traveled to the St . Petersburgmuseum in 1991 and helped raise money to preserve and display its 22 Rembrandts and other Dutch masters in proper conditions, showed it to his Russian colleague.

The New York Times - Arts

After news media reports on Saturday that the Chinese had taken the architect, Patrick Henri Devillers, 51, into custody, a spokesman for the French Foreign Ministry said that Mr. Devillers was being "housed" in "proper conditions" and that he was not in prison.

The New York Times

Moreover, these ions are able to participate in the Fenton's reaction in proper conditions and produce a whole set of reactive oxygen species in situ[35], leading to the oxidative damage of nucleobases, oxidation-related mutagenesis, or cleavage of the polynucleotide backbone.

Chemistry Central Journal

While previous observations of bear fellatio were chalked up to the animals living in stressful conditions, this was the first example of bears in proper conditions just wanting to have fun.

Huffington Post

Stocks of yeast strains were maintained on solid 2% YPD (1% yeast extract, 2% glucose, 2% peptone and 2% agar) in proper conditions to avoid the selection of petites or suppressors.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in proper condition", ensure you specify what the object or system is and what 'proper' means in that specific context. For example, "The brakes are in proper condition for city driving".

Common error

Avoid using "in proper condition" without clarifying the specific criteria for 'proper'. What might be considered proper for one use case may not be for another.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in proper condition" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the state or status of something, indicating that it meets a required standard of functionality or maintenance. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in proper condition" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, commonly used to describe something that is functioning correctly or is in a suitable state for use. Ludwig confirms the phrase's validity, noting its application across contexts like news, wikis, and scientific documents. Though versatile, ensuring clarity by specifying the standards of "proper" in each context is important. Related phrases like "in good working order" and "adequately maintained" can provide alternatives, but they may subtly shift the emphasis. Overall, "in proper condition" serves as a useful and clear way to denote functionality and suitability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in good working order

Emphasizes functionality and operational readiness.

in optimal state

Focuses on achieving the best possible condition.

adequately maintained

Highlights the act of upkeep and care.

correctly functioning

Directly addresses whether something is working as intended.

in serviceable condition

Indicates the item is fit for its intended purpose.

fit for purpose

Highlights suitability and readiness for a specific task.

in tip-top shape

Suggests excellent or near-perfect condition, more informal.

well-kept

Focuses on the result of regular maintenance and care.

fully operational

Emphasizes complete functionality and readiness for use.

up to standard

Indicates that something meets required specifications or expectations.

FAQs

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

You can use "in proper condition" to describe something that is functioning correctly or is in a suitable state for use. For example: "Before we proceed with the project, we need to ensure that all equipment is in proper condition."

What are some alternatives to "in proper condition"?

You can use alternatives like "in good working order", "in optimal state", or "adequately maintained", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "in proper condition" or "in good condition"?

Both "in proper condition" and "in good condition" are correct, but "in proper condition" often implies a more specific or technical standard is being met. "In good condition" is generally broader.

What does it mean for something to be "in proper condition"?

When something is "in proper condition", it means it is functioning as it should be, is well-maintained, and is suitable for its intended purpose.