its proper sense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "its proper sense" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the correct or intended meaning of a word, phrase, or concept. Example: "To fully understand the author's message, we must interpret the term in its proper sense."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

On the other hand, the theater could sure use a few giants like her to help it sustain its proper sense of scale.

The New York Times - Books

In Nero 38.2, ad monumentorum bustorumque deversoria plebe compulsa, the word is contrasted with monumentorum and may perhaps be used in its proper sense; it is probably more naturally p364 taken as a synonym for sepulcrorum, although taking refuge in busta would emphasize the wretched plight of the commons.

University of Chicago

That will free "liberal" to be used exclusively from now on in its proper sense, as we shall continue to use it regardless.

The Economist

It seems probable that Suetonius here used the word in its proper sense, and not in the later one of a tomb, which would certainly be out of place in this connection.

University of Chicago

In the period of the early principate (1st century ce), the testament was fully recognized in its proper sense.

Encyclopedia Britannica

323 Not pious in its proper sense, But chattring like a bird, Of sin and grace in such a case Mag-piety's the word.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It is now the mental or interior word (verbum interius), i.e., the mental concept, that is considered as word in its most proper sense, whereas the spoken word appears as a mere sign or voice of the word (signum verbi, vox verbi) (Augustine, De Trinitate XV 11 20, 1968, 486f)..[11] Thoughts (cogitationes) are performed in mental words.

SEP

"I'm slow and need help walking but I'm taking it with a proper sense of perspective," he adds.

The Guardian - Sport

Platypus was founded on the idea that the left didn't have a proper sense of its own history, especially the bad bits, and that a study of that history would help it emerge from the troubled state in which it found itself.

The New Yorker

Staff are irritated that NHS bosses, with the exception of NHS England's medical director, Prof Sir Bruce Keogh, have failed to defend the service, highlight its achievements or maintain a proper sense of balance in the many controversies that emerged during 2013, Hopson added.

The Guardian

They have given it the one thing it always lacked: a proper sense of history.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "its proper sense", ensure that the context clearly defines what the 'proper' sense is to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "its proper sense" without providing sufficient context or clarification. The 'proper' sense can be subjective, so define it explicitly for your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "its proper sense" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as an object of a preposition or a complement to a verb. It indicates the intended or correct understanding of a term, concept, or idea. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase’s grammatically correct status and its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Academia

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "its proper sense" is a grammatically sound and conceptually useful phrase for emphasizing accurate understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and applicability across various domains, including academic writing, news reporting, and encyclopedic definitions. While not exceptionally common, the phrase serves a valuable purpose in ensuring clarity and preventing misinterpretations. Remember to provide sufficient context when using it, as the "proper" sense can be subjective and context-dependent. By considering alternative phrasing and being mindful of potential ambiguities, you can effectively leverage this phrase to enhance the precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

its correct interpretation

Focuses on the act of interpreting something accurately, rather than the inherent sense.

its true meaning

Emphasizes the authenticity and genuineness of the meaning.

its intended meaning

Highlights the original intention behind the phrase or concept.

its accurate understanding

Stresses the accuracy of comprehension.

its precise definition

Emphasizes the exactness and clarity of the definition.

its strict sense

Implies a narrow and literal interpretation.

its actual significance

Highlights the real importance or impact.

its original import

Focuses on the initial meaning or relevance.

its inherent value

Highlights the intrinsic worth or quality.

its logical consequence

Highlights the inevitable result or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "its proper sense" in a sentence?

Use "its proper sense" when you want to emphasize the importance of understanding a term or concept in its intended or correct meaning. For example: "To appreciate the poem, one must understand the symbolism in "its proper sense"".

What is another way to say "its proper sense"?

Alternatives include "its true meaning", "its intended meaning", or "its correct interpretation". The best choice depends on the specific context and what aspect of the meaning you want to emphasize.

What's the difference between "its proper sense" and "its literal meaning"?

"Its proper sense" refers to the correct or intended understanding, which might include nuances and context. "Its literal meaning" refers to the dictionary definition, without considering context. Sometimes the "its literal meaning" might not fully capture "its proper sense".

When is it appropriate to use "its proper sense" in writing?

It's appropriate when discussing definitions, interpretations, or when clarifying a potentially misunderstood term or concept. For example, when analyzing a philosophical argument, understanding each term in "its proper sense" is crucial.