not proper for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not proper for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is inappropriate or unsuitable for a particular context or situation. Example: "The language used in that report is not proper for a professional setting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

It is not proper for them to speak".

The New York Times

Because that's just not proper for a nine year old to see.

The Guardian - Opinion

"These are not proper for the cold, but I have no money to buy shoes".

The New York Times

Hasnain told the magazine last week that "It is not proper for IPCC to include references from popular magazines or newspapers".

The Guardian

It's not proper for a pope to board a plane too often or speak to crowds that sing and sway like so many little devils.

The New York Times

He continued: "As for the G-8, it is not proper for a non-G-8 country to discuss its future.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

"She always had medical interests, and maybe it just wasn't proper for a woman in the 20's to do that.

The New York Times

"They thought it wasn't proper for a Brahmin woman to perform," and so she pursued her childhood passion tepidly, performing to taped music at community events that didn't require much soul-searching.

Huffington Post

"What prompted your vocal advocacy?" "I was a teacher and I tried to speak at the New York State Teachers Associationn meeting in 1853, but the men said it wasn't proper for a woman to speak in public.

Huffington Post

This is not proper behaviour for a prime minister".

The Guardian

"These are not proper indications for who is a Muslim and who is not".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not proper for", consider the specific reason for the unsuitability. Being explicit enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "This attire is not proper for the event", specify "This attire is not proper for the formal event".

Common error

Avoid using "not proper for" in casual contexts where simpler alternatives like "not right for" or "not suitable for" would be more appropriate. Overly formal language can sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not proper for" functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun, indicating that something does not meet the required standards or is unsuitable for a particular situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

52%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not proper for" is a versatile adjectival phrase used to denote unsuitability or inappropriateness. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability, noting its frequent presence in news, scientific, and general contexts. While grammatically sound and widely understood, careful attention should be paid to the tone, ensuring it aligns with the intended audience and context. Alternatives like "inappropriate for" or "unsuitable for" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not appropriate for

A more formal variation of the original phrase, emphasizing the lack of suitability.

inappropriate for

Direct synonym emphasizing a lack of suitability or decorum.

unsuitable for

Similar to "inappropriate", focusing on the lack of fitness for a purpose or situation.

unfit for

Emphasizes a lack of qualification or preparedness.

ill-suited to

Highlights a mismatch between the subject and the requirements of the situation.

out of place in

Suggests a lack of harmony or belonging within a specific environment.

inapt for

Formal synonym indicating a lack of relevance or appropriateness.

wrong for

Simple and direct alternative, emphasizing a lack of suitability.

unbecoming of

Implies that something detracts from one's character or dignity.

incompatible with

Indicates a fundamental opposition or conflict.

FAQs

What does "not proper for" mean?

The phrase "not proper for" indicates that something is unsuitable, inappropriate, or does not conform to expected standards in a specific context. It suggests that an action, item, or behavior is somehow incorrect or unfitting for the situation.

How can I use "not proper for" in a sentence?

You can use "not proper for" to describe something that is inappropriate or unsuitable for a specific situation. For example, "That language is "inappropriate for" a professional setting" or "This tool is "unsuitable for" delicate work".

What can I say instead of "not proper for"?

Alternatives include "inappropriate for", "unsuitable for", "unfit for", or "ill-suited to", depending on the context. The best choice will depend on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always better to use a simpler alternative to "not proper for"?

Not necessarily. While simpler alternatives can be appropriate in informal contexts, "not proper for" can be more fitting in formal or professional settings where a more refined tone is desired. Consider your audience and the overall tone when choosing your words.