properly to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "properly to" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear in context.
It can be used when indicating the correct manner or method of doing something, but it often requires additional context to clarify its meaning. Example: "You need to follow the guidelines properly to ensure the project meets the required standards."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This wasn't communicated properly to the new [society] committee.

Independent

He can't talk properly to Ellen while Connie's looking.

The New Yorker

We've never been able properly to use the sanctuary.

The New York Times

Others don't link properly to the items you want.

The Guardian - Tech

Robert Southey was the first properly to inhabit it.

The Guardian - Books

My body hasn't adjusted properly to the time difference.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Compensation experts said the board had reacted properly to the company's dismal performance.

The New York Times

Vin Jaune is one of the few wines that can stand up properly to cheese.

The New York Times - Food

Officials failed to treat the corrosive water properly to prevent metal leaching from old pipes.

Independent

Also, couplings must be installed properly to operate satisfactorily.

Industrial Machinery Repair Best Maintenance Practices Pocket Guide

Therefore, these coils should be designed properly to achieve high power transfer efficiency [21, 22].

EURASIP Journal on Embedded Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "properly to", ensure the context makes it clear what standard or expectation you are referring to. For example, specify what needs to be aligned or adjusted 'properly to' achieve a specific outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "properly to" in overly formal or complex sentences where a simpler adverb or prepositional phrase would suffice. Ensure that the phrase doesn't create ambiguity; be specific about what 'properly' entails in the given situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "properly to" functions as an adverbial phrase followed by a preposition. It modifies a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action should be performed or a condition should be met. Ludwig shows examples from diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

35%

Wiki

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "properly to" functions as an adverbial phrase followed by a preposition, highlighting the need to perform an action in a specific manner to achieve a desired result. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples shows that this phrase is commonly used across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. Though generally acceptable, it's important to consider whether alternatives like "correctly to" or "appropriately to" might offer greater clarity in certain situations. As confirmed by Ludwig, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity will help to use "properly to" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

correctly to

This alternative emphasizes accuracy and precision in relation to something.

appropriately to

This alternative highlights the suitability of an action or method in a given situation.

suitably to

Similar to 'appropriately to', this stresses the fitness of something for a particular purpose.

effectively to

This suggests that something is done in a way that produces the desired result.

adequately to

This implies that something is done to a sufficient degree or standard.

accurately to

This emphasizes the correctness and freedom from error in relation to something.

rightly to

This implies doing something in a morally or legally correct way.

duly to

This suggests that something is done in accordance with what is required or expected.

satisfactorily to

This indicates that something is done in a way that meets expectations or requirements.

thoroughly to

This suggests that something is done comprehensively and with great attention to detail.

FAQs

How can I use "properly to" in a sentence?

Use "properly to" when you want to emphasize the correct or appropriate way of doing something in relation to a specific goal or standard. For example: "The equipment must be installed "correctly to" function safely."

What are some alternatives to "properly to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "correctly to", "appropriately to", or "effectively to". Choose the alternative that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

Is "properly to" always the best choice, or are there times when another phrase is more suitable?

While "properly to" can be acceptable, sometimes other phrases like "correctly to" or "appropriately to" provide greater clarity or sound more natural. Consider the specific context and audience when making your choice.

What's the difference between "properly to" and "correctly to"?

"Properly to" generally means in the right way or manner, while "correctly to" emphasizes accuracy and freedom from error. The choice depends on whether you want to stress adherence to a standard or factual accuracy.