less proper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less proper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not as formal or appropriate as another option. Example: "In casual conversations, using slang is often considered less proper than using standard language."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Devolved assemblies were set up in Northern Ireland and Wales, while the Scots were given a more or less proper parliament.

The Economist

But Washington was as absorbed  about the propriety of a first lady having such a central role in the  Oscars, suggesting it was less proper than, say, a president throwing out a baseball pitch or flipping pancakes in Iowa in the courting of voters.

The New York Times

Further analysis of the designs show that for the range of model parameters considered, misspecification of the model parameters can reduce the efficiency of the experimental design to 30% or less: proper selection of the model parameters at which the design is developed within the model-parameter space can increase the maximum minimum design efficiency to nearly 55%.

Journal of Food Engineering

Being and substance can be predicated by analogy of God and creatures: of God primarily and properly, of creatures in a participative and less proper way.

SEP

James' position, in fact, is that relations are not things "properly and absolutely speaking," but only "in a certain way according to a less proper way of speaking".

SEP

While it is probably not a surprise to learn that rivers are the same in number only in a less proper sense, it is striking that Buridan goes on to assert that plants and non-rational animals too can only be numerically the same in this less proper sense (Quaestiones super De gen. 1.13 (2010, 114 15)).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

With "Swimming Studies" she's composed a volume that is less a proper memoir than a collection of flickering sketches.

The New York Times - Books

Hello's dewy modesty, however, was born less of proper British restraint than of shrewd business practice.

The New York Times

I have trouble playing a CD, much less a proper musical instrument, and this was only my third one-hour lesson in as many days.

The New York Times

In the Oxford Martin report that ranks 702 current jobs in terms of their likelihood to be automated, dancer and choreographer are among those least likely to be affected, considerably less than "proper" jobs like lawyer and accountant.

The Guardian

"I have carefully avoided situations that might even tangentially be construed as a less than proper use of my office," he wrote in his memoir, "Worth the Fighting For" (Random House, 2002).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less proper", consider the specific context. Determine if you are referring to formality, appropriateness, or correctness. Choose a synonym if a more specific term better conveys your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "less proper" too frequently in formal academic writing. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound vague. Opt for more precise language that clearly identifies the specific issue, such as "less accurate" or "less appropriate."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less proper" functions as a comparative adjective, modifying a noun by indicating that it possesses a quality (propriety) to a lesser degree than something else. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form. It is often used to express a judgment or comparison regarding formality, suitability, or correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less proper" serves as a comparative adjective, frequently employed in both scientific and news media contexts to denote a diminished degree of formality, suitability, or correctness. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. While it is versatile, it's important to consider the specific context to ensure that "less proper" accurately conveys the intended meaning, possibly opting for alternatives like ""less appropriate"" or ""less formal"" for enhanced precision. Despite its common usage, overuse in formal academic writing should be avoided in favor of more specific and descriptive language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less appropriate

Focuses on the suitability of something for a particular situation or purpose. It emphasizes the lack of fitness rather than formality.

less suitable

Highlights the inadequacy of something for a specific role or function. This relates to how well something fits a purpose.

less correct

Indicates a deviation from established standards of accuracy. The focus is on factual or procedural accuracy.

less fitting

Suggests something is not in harmony with its surroundings or purpose. The context here is more about harmony and agreement.

somewhat improper

Directly addresses the lack of adherence to accepted standards of behavior. The nuance is more pointed at moral or ethical considerations.

slightly inappropriate

Emphasizes the minor degree to which something misses the mark of appropriateness. The key is the mild nature of the misstep.

not quite right

Emphasizes a general sense that something is off or incorrect, without specifying why. It's a more vague and general expression.

a bit off

Indicates a minor deviation from what is expected or normal. This alternative is more casual and informal.

less conventional

Indicates a departure from traditional or widely accepted norms. Focuses more on tradition and social norms.

less formal

Highlights a reduction in formality, often related to dress code or etiquette. This alternative focuses on the level of formality.

FAQs

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

You can use "less proper" to describe something that is not as formal, suitable, or correct as something else. For example, "Using slang in a formal presentation is considered "less proper" than using standard English."

What is a good alternative to "less proper"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "less appropriate", "less suitable", or "less formal". Each alternative conveys a slightly different nuance.

Is it correct to say "less proper" or should I use "fewer proper"?

"Less proper" is generally correct when referring to something that is not as appropriate or formal. "Fewer" is used for countable nouns, while "less" is used for uncountable nouns. Since "proper" in this context is an adjective describing a state or quality, "less proper" is the appropriate choice.

What's the difference between "less proper" and "more informal"?

"Less proper" implies a deviation from established norms or standards of correctness or suitability, while "more informal" specifically refers to a reduced level of formality. "Less proper" can encompass both formality and appropriateness, whereas "more informal" is primarily about formality.