limits of propriety

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limits of propriety" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to discuss boundaries or acceptable behavior in social or professional contexts. Example: "While expressing your opinion is important, it's essential to remain within the limits of propriety to maintain a respectful dialogue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

A polarizing figure who delighted in breaching the limits of propriety and cinematic good taste, Mr. Russell courted controversy through much of his career.

The New York Times - Arts

"A fee of this magnitude probes the limits of propriety and requires the courts to rule whether the practice of law, which bars attorneys from accepting unreasonable or illegal fees, will permit counsel to enjoy such a windfall".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

In contrast to most conversations, which have certain culturally-defined limits and rhythms of propriety, this exchange has no such rigid rules.

The New York Times

This is doubtless disquieting to the people whose souls are being stolen, and it tests the limits of taste and propriety, but it makes for good theater.

The New York Times

He's a little bit like Trey Parker and Matt Stone of Southpark fame in that he levels the playing field of propriety simply by making nothing off limits.

Huffington Post

All interesting questions to ask in the context of social photo-sharing, which arguably limits what can be photographed — whether it's for vanity/self-consciousness, broader feelings of propriety, or general pressure to conform or gain tacit approval from a peer group.

TechCrunch

Updated at 4.22pm BST 4.21pm BST Reid says: "My knowledge was limited... even if it had been greater was not in the bounds of propriety to start chatting about the case".

The Guardian

It offends his sense of propriety.

The New York Times - Magazine

At this, Coleridge suffered a rare fit of propriety.

Independent

Does that kind of communal voice of propriety still exist?

The New Yorker

There was a disregard of the facts and of propriety.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potentially controversial topics, use the phrase "limits of propriety" to acknowledge the existence of boundaries that should not be crossed, ensuring a respectful and productive conversation.

Common error

Avoid confusing "propriety", which relates to social norms and decorum, with "property", which refers to ownership. Using "limits of property" in place of "limits of propriety" would fundamentally change the meaning of your sentence, making it about boundaries of ownership rather than social conduct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limits of propriety" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the boundaries or constraints of acceptable behavior or adherence to social norms. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in discussing controversial actions or remarks that challenge these boundaries.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "limits of propriety" refers to the boundaries of acceptable behavior and adherence to social norms. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct, although relatively rare. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it's used to discuss controversial actions or behaviors that challenge these limits. When writing, it's crucial to distinguish "propriety" from "property" to avoid semantic errors. Alternatives like "bounds of decorum" or "acceptable standards of behavior" offer similar meanings depending on the context. This phrase serves to define or analyze the extent to which actions are socially, ethically, or professionally acceptable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bounds of decorum

Replaces "propriety" with "decorum", emphasizing social etiquette and dignified behavior.

boundaries of good taste

Focuses on aesthetic judgment and what is considered acceptable or refined.

acceptable standards of behavior

Highlights the behavioral aspect, referring to what is considered permissible or appropriate.

rules of etiquette

Emphasizes formal social conventions and expected manners.

conventions of decency

Stresses moral or ethical considerations in determining acceptable behavior.

parameters of respectability

Indicates the boundaries within which one is considered proper and socially acceptable.

permissible conduct

Highlights the aspect of allowing or authorizing certain actions within a defined scope.

constraints of decorousness

Focuses on the act of maintaining a polite and restrained appearance or behavior.

margins of social acceptability

Emphasizes what society deems as tolerable or within the norm.

framework of appropriate behavior

Highlights the system or structure that determines what actions are suitable.

FAQs

How can I use "limits of propriety" in a sentence?

You can use "limits of propriety" to discuss the boundaries of acceptable behavior in social or professional settings. For example: "He tested the "limits of propriety" with his controversial remarks."

What's the difference between "limits of propriety" and "limits of decency"?

"Limits of propriety" generally refers to adhering to social conventions and manners, while "limits of decency" refers to avoiding behavior that is offensive or morally objectionable. Propriety is about what is socially acceptable, while decency is about what is morally acceptable.

What can I say instead of "limits of propriety"?

You can use alternatives like "bounds of decorum", "acceptable standards of behavior", or "rules of etiquette" depending on the context.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "limits of propriety"?

The phrase "limits of propriety" is appropriate in formal discussions, legal contexts, or academic analyses where you need to discuss or analyze acceptable behavior, social conventions, or ethical boundaries. It is less common in informal conversation.