seems proper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seems proper" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing an opinion or judgment about something appearing to be appropriate or suitable in a given context. Example: "In this situation, it seems proper to address the issue directly and honestly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Graeber himself certainly seems to be having more fun than seems proper for a respected professor.

The Guardian - Books

The former NAB chief executive Cameron Clyne told the AFR that "NAB ruling out involvement with the Adani Carmichael coal mega-mine seems proper" and "prudent" for shareholders.

The Guardian - Business

It seems proper, within the vertebrate group, to consider elimination schemes as variations of mechanisms common to all higher animals but which enable animals to inhabit widely diversified environments.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Here it seems proper to resuscitate both Andy Warhol's famous observation that "being good in business is the most fascinating kind of art," and to paraphrase an aphorism often attributed to the actual Picasso: mediocre artists borrow, great artists steal.

The New York Times

It seems proper to consider a word as the name of that which we intend to be understood by it when we use it; of that which any fact that we assert of it is to be understood; of that, in short, concerning which, when we employ the word, we intend to give information.

The New York Times

Four years on from my unsavoury outburst in Cornwall, I find that I am able to miss my old man in a way that seems proper and dignified - in a way that approximates to the mode I spent nearly 10 years anticipating and practising for.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

This seemed proper, even expected.

The New York Times

It seemed proper and right.

The New Yorker

It seemed proper to eliminate certain words in the lyrics which, in racial terms, had proven offensive".

The New York Times

But does it not seem proper that we who live in what was once the capital of the colonial province of New Netherland should feel a certain affinity for the players representing the old country?

The New York Times

Anna had become entranced by the places at the dark ends of the streets: the establishments that seemed proper on the exterior but contained hidden rooms filled with glittering bottles of moonshine.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seems proper" to express a subjective judgment about whether something is appropriate or fitting in a particular situation. Ensure the context is clear so readers understand the basis for your judgment.

Common error

While "seems proper" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal writing where more precise or authoritative language may be preferred. Consider stronger alternatives like "is required" or "is essential" to convey certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seems proper" functions as an evaluative adjective phrase. It expresses an opinion or judgment about something appearing appropriate or suitable, as seen in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seems proper" is a versatile expression used to convey a subjective judgment about the appropriateness or suitability of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. While generally neutral in tone, it's advisable to use more precise language in highly formal settings. Alternatives include "appears appropriate" or "seems fitting", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seems fitting

Highlights the suitability of something for a specific context or purpose.

appears appropriate

Emphasizes the visual aspect of appropriateness, suggesting something looks suitable.

seems suitable

Similar to "seems fitting" but focuses on general suitability.

appears suitable

Similar to "appears appropriate" but focuses more on general suitability.

appears in order

Suggests that something is correctly arranged or organized.

seems sensible

Focuses on the reasonableness and practicality of something.

seems acceptable

Indicates that something meets a minimum standard or requirement.

appears justified

Highlights that there's a good reason or basis for something.

seems justified

Highlights that there's a good reason or basis for something.

appears prudent

Implies careful and wise decision-making.

FAQs

How can I use "seems proper" in a sentence?

You can use "seems proper" to express that something appears to be appropriate or fitting. For example: "In this situation, it "seems proper" to address the issue directly."

What are some alternatives to "seems proper"?

Alternatives include "appears appropriate", "seems fitting", or "appears justified" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "seems proper" formal or informal?

"Seems proper" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, consider using more precise language to avoid ambiguity.

What's the difference between "seems proper" and "is proper"?

"Seems proper" implies a degree of subjectivity or uncertainty, while "is proper" suggests a more definitive or established correctness. Use "seems proper" when expressing an opinion, and "is proper" when stating a fact.