it is improper to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is improper to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing behavior or actions that are considered inappropriate or unacceptable in a particular context. Example: "In a professional setting, it is improper to use offensive language during meetings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Under retribution, it is improper to allow guilty individuals to go unpunished.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It is improper to have vendor work without a contract," Mr. Hevesi said.

The New York Times

Some will say that it is improper to change special "bankruptcy only" rates.

The New York Times

As much as our fundraising is vital, it is improper to incite readers to feel pity towards fellow human beings.

The Guardian

MR. ROBERTS -- What Your Honor is suggesting is that it is improper to engage in that conduct.

The New York Times

This study found that it is improper to use equivalent concrete webs (ECWs) to replace corrugated steel webs (CSWs) in the MIDAS Civil.

Engineering Structures

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Mr. Murdoch answered, "It's improper to use media and its treatment of news if it's in any way motivated by personal profit".

The New York Times

Two of the government's experts testified that if a study misses all its "primary endpoints" (as this one did), then it's improper to draw conclusions about a drug's effect in subgroups identified later.

The Washington Post

A spokesman for the firm said it was improper to comment on any security measures.

The New York Times

"As a general matter I'd say it's improper to look abroad when interpreting our Constitution," Judge Gorsuch said.

The New York Times

Either it's improper, to be paying for her personal expenses, or they think it's important to their business, too".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is improper to" when you want to express that an action violates norms, rules, or ethical principles. Consider the specific context to ensure it's the most fitting choice compared to alternatives like "inappropriate" or "unethical".

Common error

Avoid using "it is improper to" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler, more direct phrases like "it's not right to" or "it's wrong to" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is improper to" functions as an evaluative statement, expressing disapproval or prohibition of a particular action. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's used to denote that something violates norms, rules, or ethical principles.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is improper to" is a useful way to express that an action is not appropriate or violates certain rules or norms. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples from reliable sources, indicates its usage is grammatically correct and commonly found in news, scientific writing, and encyclopedic contexts. While it’s suitable for formal and professional communication, remember to consider alternatives like "it is inappropriate to" for more directness or simplicity, especially in informal settings. Pay attention to context to prevent misuse and improve clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is inappropriate to

Implies a lack of suitability for a specific context or situation; a more direct synonym.

it is unsuitable to

Suggests a mismatch between the action and the situation, indicating a lack of fitness.

it is wrong to

Conveys a moral or ethical judgment against the action.

it is unacceptable to

Indicates that the action does not meet the required standards or norms.

it is not acceptable to

A more direct synonym to stress the unacceptability of something.

it is unethical to

Specifically refers to actions that violate a code of ethics.

it is inadmissible to

Suggests something is not allowed or cannot be accepted, often in a formal or legal context.

it is impermissible to

Highlights that an action is not allowed or permitted, often in a formal setting.

it is not right to

Emphasizes the incorrectness or unjustness of an action.

it is out of line to

Indicates behavior that exceeds the bounds of what is considered acceptable.

FAQs

What does "it is improper to" mean?

The phrase "it is improper to" means that something is not appropriate or suitable; it violates norms or rules. It indicates that an action is incorrect or inappropriate in a given situation.

How can I use "it is improper to" in a sentence?

You can use "it is improper to" to express disapproval or to state a rule. For example: "In a formal setting, "it is improper to" use slang." or "It is improper to comment on someone's appearance in a professional environment".

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

You can use alternatives like "it is inappropriate to", "it is unsuitable to", or "it is wrong to" depending on the context.

When is it better to use "it is inappropriate to" instead of "it is improper to"?

"It is inappropriate to" often indicates a lack of suitability for a specific context, while "it is improper to" suggests a violation of norms or rules. "It is inappropriate to" may be a more direct synonym if the focus is on context, rather than rule-breaking. For example, "It is improper to wear jeans to a gala", and ""It is inappropriate to" bring up private matters at a professional dinner".