patently improper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "patently improper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is clearly or obviously inappropriate or unacceptable. Example: "The judge ruled that the evidence presented was patently improper and could not be considered in the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Judge Smithson dropped the charges, saying that the state had used "patently improper" investigative methods, and rebuked the state police and prosecutors for failing to produce "a scintilla of evidence".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The M.T.A. at first rejected both, citing a rule approved by its board in 1997 that let the agency ban ads that were "sexually suggestive," "patently offensive, improper or in bad taste" or "directly adverse to the commercial or administrative interests of the M.T.A".

The New York Times

This is patently wrong.

The Economist

The received wisdom was patently wrong.

Independent

"That's patently wrong".

Vice

"I think it would be wrong for the Supreme Court to say that it was patently illegal or improper to send a youthful offender to life without parole.

The New York Times

A mathematical fallacy, on the other hand, is an instance of improper reasoning leading to an unexpected result that is patently false or absurd.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Patently untrue.

The Guardian - Sport

Argentina patently.

The Guardian - Sport

Patently, that's progress.

The Economist

"That's patently obvious.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "patently improper", ensure the context clearly demonstrates the obvious and inappropriate nature of the subject being described. This phrase is most effective when the impropriety is readily apparent to an observer.

Common error

Avoid using "patently improper" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formal tone can sound stilted or pretentious in everyday settings. Simpler phrases like "clearly wrong" or "obviously inappropriate" are often more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "patently improper" functions as an adjectival modifier, describing something as being clearly and obviously inappropriate or unacceptable. It is used to express strong disapproval or condemnation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "patently improper" is a formal phrase used to describe something that is obviously inappropriate or wrong. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While relatively rare, the phrase is most commonly found in News & Media contexts. It is a strong expression suitable for formal settings where clarity and emphasis are important. Alternatives such as "clearly inappropriate" or "obviously unacceptable" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. Remember to reserve this phrase for situations where the impropriety is evident and requires strong emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

patently unacceptable

Retains "patently" but replaces "improper" with the stronger "unacceptable".

clearly inappropriate

Replaces "patently" with "clearly", indicating obviousness without the legal connotation.

obviously unacceptable

Substitutes both words to convey a stronger sense of unacceptability and visibility.

blatantly unsuitable

"Blatantly" emphasizes the obviousness more strongly than "patently", while "unsuitable" softens "improper".

plainly wrong

This is a simpler, more direct way of saying something is clearly incorrect or inappropriate.

manifestly inappropriate

"Manifestly" is a more formal synonym for "patently", maintaining a similar tone.

indisputably unethical

Focuses specifically on the ethical dimension of the impropriety, adding a layer of moral judgment.

egregiously flawed

Emphasizes the extent to which something is flawed rather than focusing on its impropriety.

flagrantly illegal

Highlights the illegality of the action, rather than just its impropriety.

unquestionably unprofessional

Frames the impropriety specifically within a professional context.

FAQs

How can I use "patently improper" in a sentence?

You can use "patently improper" to describe actions or behaviors that are clearly wrong or inappropriate, particularly in legal or formal contexts. For example: "The judge ruled the evidence was "patently improper" and inadmissible."

What are some alternatives to "patently improper"?

Alternatives include "clearly inappropriate", "obviously unacceptable", or "plainly wrong". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is "patently improper" a formal or informal phrase?

"Patently improper" is a formal phrase often used in legal or professional settings. It's less common in casual conversation.

What does "patently" mean in "patently improper"?

"Patently" means clearly or obviously. So, "patently improper" means something is clearly or obviously inappropriate or wrong.