Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
proper document
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"proper document" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to an official document that follows all the required rules and is properly filled out. For example, "Make sure you have a proper document to prove your identity before entering the country".
✓ Grammatically correct
Formal & Business
News & Media
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
4 human-written examples
All sequences (SEQ ID NOs). and tables for listed patents or publications are available for viewing, without downloading, by accessing the proper document detail page and then submitting a SEQ ID NO or a mega table ID number.
Academia
Assigning your personal property to the trust and having the proper document allows the trustee to distribute your personal property those that you list thus helping to avoid conflicts within the family when you're gone.
News & Media
For Country Programmes of Cooperation documents you must first apply its proper document type keyword so the appropiate fields display.
Formal & Business
There are websites that offer free forms to assist with the terms, language and proper document format.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
56 human-written examples
The I.G.'s eighty-three page report, "Office of the Secretary: Evaluation of Email Records Management and Cybersecurity Requirements," is one of the more comprehensive examinations the government has ever issued on proper document-retention habits in the federal bureaucracy.
News & Media
"But we need the cooperation of being given the proper documents to do a proper analysis.
News & Media
"Since the war, I have seen proper documents for only one ship".
News & Media
At least 17 face prosecution for re-entering the country without proper documents.
News & Media
Virtually all are either asylum seekers or migrants without proper documents.
News & Media
Airlines are already fined if they carry passengers without proper documents.
News & Media
Without the proper documents, immigrants are liable to deportation if stopped by the police.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When referring to official submissions or legal requirements, specify the exact type of "proper document" needed to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "submit the proper document", say "submit the proper identification document".
Common error
Avoid using "proper document" when a more specific term is necessary. Saying "ensure you have the proper document" might be vague; specify if you need a passport, visa, or specific form to prevent confusion.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "proper document" functions as a noun phrase, where "proper" acts as a pre-modifying adjective specifying the quality or state of the noun "document". It indicates that the document is complete, accurate, and meets the necessary requirements. As suggested by Ludwig, it refers to official documents.
Frequent in
News & Media
75%
Formal & Business
12%
Academia
13%
Less common in
Science
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "proper document" denotes a document that is complete, accurate, and meets all necessary requirements. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct but has a rare usage. It is frequently employed in news and media, formal business, and academic settings. To enhance clarity, it is recommended to specify the type of document. Despite the "aiResponseStatus" indicating correctness, caution should be exercised to avoid overgeneralization and to ensure the use of more specific terms when needed.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
accurate document
Replaces "proper" with "accurate", focusing on the correctness and truthfulness of the document's contents.
valid document
Emphasizes the legal or official acceptance of the document, ensuring it meets required standards.
legitimate document
Highlights the authenticity and lawfulness of the document.
correct document
Stresses the absence of errors and the adherence to required standards.
suitable document
Focuses on the document being appropriate or fitting for a specific purpose or situation.
required documentation
Shifts from the document itself to the necessary paperwork or evidence needed.
official paperwork
Replaces "document" with "paperwork", emphasizing the formal and administrative nature.
necessary forms
Focuses on the official forms required for a specific process or purpose.
relevant records
Highlights the importance of the documents being related to the matter at hand and duly registered.
appropriate credentials
Emphasizes the qualifications or authorizations demonstrated by the document.
FAQs
What does "proper document" mean?
A "proper document" refers to an official paper or record that is complete, accurate, and conforms to all relevant requirements and regulations. It is fit for its intended purpose and legally acceptable.
What are some alternatives to saying "proper document"?
Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "accurate document", "valid document", or "legitimate document".
How do I ensure a document is "proper"?
To ensure a document is "proper", verify that all required fields are completed, the information is accurate, and the document is signed and dated correctly. Also, ensure it meets any specific formatting or submission guidelines.
In legal contexts, what makes a document "proper"?
In legal contexts, a "proper document" is one that adheres to all relevant laws and regulations, is admissible as evidence, and has been correctly filed or recorded according to legal procedures. Ensuring it is a "valid document".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested