rules of propriety

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rules of propriety" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing accepted standards of behavior or conduct in a particular context or society. Example: "In formal gatherings, it is important to adhere to the rules of propriety to ensure a respectful atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"By all the rules of propriety," Doukas said, "we should have been stopped by someone".

The New Yorker

But the rules of propriety must be different when you're trying to be cool outside stadiums and arenas.

The New York Times - Sports

His violent temper and great strength sometimes led him to go beyond the rules of propriety, and in May 1743 he was placed under arrest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

candor that has popped claws in show business society, which plays faster and looser than old-money circles in New York or even Pasadena, but still has unspoken rules of propriety.

The New York Times

Guillaume Apollinaire, champion of the Eiffel tower, which in its day created a similar scandal, would have loved this other challenge to the century and the rules of propriety.

The Guardian - Arts

As such, it cannot be eradicated but only regulated by rules of propriety and ritual action.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

She says: "In any case when you interview an applicant, it is a fixed rule of propriety that in your house she should stand".

The New Yorker

Mencius grants that to save the life of one's drowning sister-in-law, one of course suspends the customary rule of propriety prohibiting the touching of man and woman when they are giving and receiving.

SEP

One of the most terrifying sights in the animal world is an elephant in a state of must: Huge bulls, oozing a weird, foul-smelling, greenish glop from glands near their eyes, behave with violent abandon, taking risks and defying the basic rules of pachyderm propriety (and also giving rise to the term "rogue elephant").

The New York Times

Call it a bad-boy double play: the Vollmann hero first breaks the rules of bourgeois propriety by trading money for sex without the veneer of romantic love, then he breaks the no-strings-attached rule of prostitution by professing eternal devotion.

The New York Times - Books

Then again, in this digital age, rules of creative propriety and intellectual property are constantly changing.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic or historical writing, consider using "rules of propriety" to discuss social constraints or expectations in specific eras or cultures.

Common error

Avoid using "rules of propriety" in casual or informal settings. It's better suited for discussions where a level of formality and traditional social expectations are relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rules of propriety" functions as a noun phrase that generally acts as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to the established standards of conduct or behavior considered appropriate within a specific context or society. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rules of propriety" refers to established standards of behavior considered appropriate in a given context. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While relatively rare in frequency, it is most commonly found in news media, encyclopedias, and scientific discussions. When using this phrase, it's crucial to consider the level of formality required, as it’s best suited for formal discussions where traditional social expectations are relevant. Alternatives such as "standards of decorum" or "codes of conduct" may be more appropriate in certain contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standards of decorum

Focuses more on the etiquette and outward behavior expected in social situations.

codes of conduct

Emphasizes a set of explicit guidelines or principles that govern behavior, often within a specific organization or profession.

etiquette guidelines

Specifically addresses the customary or prescribed behaviors in polite society or in a particular setting.

conventional norms

Highlights behaviors or practices that are widely accepted and followed within a society or group.

social conventions

Refers to established ways of acting and behaving that are understood and accepted by a majority.

customary behavior

Stresses actions that are habitual or traditionally practiced within a particular culture or group.

accepted practices

Highlights activities or procedures that are generally agreed upon as correct or suitable.

proper etiquette

Focuses directly on the formal rules of correct or polite behavior in society or among members of a profession.

formal protocols

Emphasizes established official procedures or systems of rules, often within diplomatic or governmental contexts.

established customs

Refers to traditions and behaviors that have been in place for a long time and are widely recognized.

FAQs

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

You can use "rules of propriety" when discussing expectations for behavior in formal environments, as in, "In diplomatic circles, strict "rules of propriety" are observed during official meetings."

What's a less formal way to say "rules of propriety"?

For a less formal context, you could use phrases like "accepted behavior", "social norms", or "etiquette guidelines" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Are "rules of propriety" the same as "laws"?

No, while laws are legally binding regulations, "rules of propriety" refer to unwritten social conventions and expectations of behavior. Breaking laws can result in legal penalties, while violating "rules of propriety" may lead to social disapproval.

What is the difference between "rules of propriety" and "ethics"?

"Rules of propriety" focus on socially acceptable behavior and etiquette, whereas ethics are moral principles that guide conduct. An action may adhere to the "rules of propriety" but still be unethical, and vice versa.