is it proper to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is it proper to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when inquiring about the appropriateness or acceptability of an action or behavior in a specific context. Example: "Is it proper to address the audience in such a casual manner during the formal event?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

When is it proper to serve a meal on paper plates?

The New York Times

"If the eighth study is positive, and the preceding seven were cold negative, is it proper to report that a treatment works?" he said.

The New York Times - Health

When I entertain in my home and receive a hostess gift that is not wine or any other item that might be used that evening (cookbook, elegant bath soap, etc)., is it proper to send a thank-you note for that gift?

The New York Times

One should notice that Dietrich does not raise a question which may appear obvious: if the intellect is not identified with any one being, is it proper to call it a being at all?

SEP

Is it proper to ask for a drink if the host doesn't offer one?

The New York Times

Is it proper to cut into the fictional action genuine news footage of the victim's horribly distressed parents at a press conference?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

That is why it is proper to feel alarm or distress toward any child in that situation.

SEP

What if we were to deem it proper to nestle substantive nutrition curricula into physical education classes?

Huffington Post

Another question is whether it was proper to record revenue for what were essentially barter deals in which no cash exchanged hands.

The New York Times

It's never been proper to put civil rights on the ballot.

The New York Times

If this can not be confirmed then it is proper to default to a non-parametric approach of which there are several [40], [62], [79].

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is it proper to", consider the specific context and audience to ensure the level of formality matches the situation. For more informal situations, consider alternatives like "is it okay to".

Common error

Avoid using "is it proper to" in very casual or informal settings. It can sound overly formal or stilted. Instead, use simpler alternatives like "is it okay to" or "is it alright to".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is it proper to" functions as an interrogative expression used to inquire about the appropriateness, correctness, or suitability of a particular action or behavior. It sets the stage for seeking guidance or validation regarding a matter of etiquette or protocol. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is it proper to" serves as a grammatically sound and functional interrogative expression used to question the appropriateness or correctness of an action. While deemed usable by Ludwig AI, its formality may not suit every context, making it essential to assess the target audience and adjust accordingly. Alternative expressions such as "is it appropriate to" or "is it acceptable to" may offer greater versatility in less formal settings. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific sources, this phrase strikes a balance between inquiring about customs and maintaining respectful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is it appropriate to

Replaces "proper" with "appropriate", maintaining a formal tone and questioning suitability.

is it acceptable to

Substitutes "proper" with "acceptable", focusing on whether something is generally agreed upon or allowed.

would it be proper to

Adds a conditional aspect, making the inquiry more tentative and polite.

is it right to

Uses "right" instead of "proper", shifting the focus to moral or ethical correctness.

is it correct to

Replaces "proper" with "correct", emphasizing factual accuracy or adherence to standards.

is it ethical to

Focuses specifically on the ethical dimensions of an action or decision.

is it advisable to

Changes the focus to whether something is a recommended course of action, rather than simply whether it is permissible.

is it fitting to

Replaces "proper" with "fitting", focusing on appropriateness in a specific context or situation.

is it in good taste to

Considers whether something aligns with social standards of politeness and decorum.

is it customary to

Highlights whether an action aligns with established conventions or traditions.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "is it proper to"?

You can use alternatives like "is it appropriate to", "is it acceptable to", or "is it right to" depending on the context.

How do I use "is it proper to" in a sentence?

The phrase "is it proper to" is used to inquire about the correctness or appropriateness of a particular action or behavior. For example: "Is it proper to wear a hat indoors?"

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is it proper to"?

Use "is it proper to" in situations where you want to determine whether a certain behavior aligns with established rules, etiquette, or moral principles. It's suitable for formal or semi-formal contexts.

What's the difference between "is it proper to" and "is it appropriate to"?

While both phrases inquire about suitability, "is it proper to" tends to emphasize adherence to specific rules or etiquette, whereas "is it appropriate to" focuses more broadly on what is suitable or fitting in a given situation.