it is only proper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is only proper" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something is appropriate or expected in a given situation. Example: "In a formal setting, it is only proper to address the guests with respect and courtesy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The Alternative Investment Market (Aim) has spawned so many upsets and scandals over the years that it is only proper to note a tale of genuine success.

The Guardian - Business

"It is only proper that we begin by saluting these two towering legends of N.Y.R.R. and our sport, who are forever linked," said Mary Wittenberg, the Road Runners president.

The New York Times

It is only proper that he comes before Parliament as a matter of urgency to spell out exactly what happened at Greenock Prison and in the alleged private meetings with Col Gaddafi's ministers.

Independent

For all the complaints of this Government's detractors, who sometimes seem even more grudging on the Left than the Right, it is only proper to acknowledge Labour's achievements too.

The Guardian

But as they talked, it turned out they had also both originally been trained to sing opera and that they shared a distaste for miked voices on Broadway and a belief that when you go to the theater as a civilian it is only proper to dress up.

The New York Times

Mazzie and her husband Jason Danieley have seen fit to publicize her illness, as encouragement for other patients and survivors, so it is only proper to mention it here.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"It's only proper".

The New York Times

If gin sounds faintly medicinal, it's only proper.

The New York Times - Food

I thought it was only proper of me to say: 'Look, I'm going.

The Guardian - Music

If the latest howling in the Chicago mayoral race could be heard in Thailand, it's only proper.

The New York Times

We are accustomed to attributing films to directors, but it's only proper to regard Coward as an equal author of this movie.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is only proper" to introduce an action or decision that aligns with established norms, ethical considerations, or expected behavior in a given context.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "it is only proper" can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. Consider more relaxed alternatives like "it's just right" or "it's the right thing to do" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is only proper" functions as an introductory clause to express that a particular action, behavior, or decision aligns with established norms, expectations, or ethical considerations. This is supported by Ludwig and its examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is only proper" is used to indicate that an action or decision is suitable, appropriate, or expected in a particular context. Ludwig AI shows that it frequently appears in news and media sources, with a generally neutral to formal register. While grammatically correct, it might sound stilted in casual conversation. Alternatives like "it is simply fitting" or "it's the right thing to do" may be more appropriate for informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is clearly appropriate

Emphasizes the obviousness of the appropriate action, making it very similar in meaning to "it is only proper".

it is absolutely fitting

Strengthens the idea of appropriateness by replacing "only proper" with "absolutely fitting", suggesting it's the perfect choice.

it is simply fitting

Replaces "only proper" with "simply fitting", suggesting a natural or harmonious alignment with the situation.

it is justly right

Emphasizes the fairness and moral correctness of the situation by replacing "only proper" with "justly right".

it is definitely suitable

Uses "definitely suitable" instead of "only proper", making a strong statement about the suitability of the action.

it is merely appropriate

Substitutes "only proper" with "merely appropriate", focusing on suitability but slightly reducing the emphasis on obligation.

it is quite correct

Substitutes "only proper" with "quite correct", underlining the accuracy and validity of the action or statement.

it is plainly suitable

Uses "plainly suitable" instead of "only proper", highlighting the evident or obvious nature of the appropriateness.

it is rightly so

Highlights the justification and correctness, implying that the situation deserves a particular response or outcome.

it is fairly reasonable

Replaces "only proper" with "fairly reasonable", focusing on the logical and justifiable nature of the action or decision.

FAQs

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

The phrase "it is only proper" is best used in formal settings, such as business communications, academic writing, or news reporting, to emphasize that an action or decision aligns with established norms or ethical considerations. It conveys a sense of appropriateness and expectation.

What are some alternatives to "it is only proper" that I can use in less formal settings?

In less formal settings, you can use alternatives like "it is simply fitting", "it is just right", or "it's the right thing to do". These options convey a similar meaning but with a more relaxed tone.

How does "it is only proper" differ from "it is only right"?

While both phrases convey a sense of appropriateness, "it is only proper" tends to emphasize adherence to established norms or expectations, while "it is only right" often focuses on moral or ethical considerations. The choice between the two depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "it is only proper" interchangeable with "it is absolutely fitting"?

While they share a similar meaning, "it is absolutely fitting" intensifies the sense of appropriateness, suggesting it's the perfect choice or the most ideal action. "It is only proper" is more general, indicating that something meets the basic requirements of appropriateness.