the propriety

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the propriety" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the appropriateness or suitability of actions, behavior, or decisions in a given context. Example: "The propriety of his comments during the meeting was questioned by several attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Cue the propriety police!

The New York Times

Some critics have questioned the propriety of this.

The New Yorker

The issue is not the propriety of Comey's letter.

The New Yorker

The Massachusetts attorney general's office also began an investigation of the propriety of the Brandeis plan.

The New York Times

Mr. Rajaratnam's appeal centers on the propriety of the government's application to wiretap his cellphone.

The New York Times

Chief among them are persistent questions about the propriety of prosecuting a child soldier.

The New York Times

But doubts about the propriety of a lottery bridged the racial gap.

The Economist

Mr. Kingsriter, who by then had left the foundation, questioned the propriety of the agreement.

The New York Times - Sports

Judy was a stickler for the propriety of others, but not her own.

The New York Times

He wasn't so sure: "I am quite seriously discussing the propriety of omitting it".

The New Yorker

The complications here go well beyond the propriety of suggesting that a student enroll elsewhere.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the propriety", ensure the context clearly establishes what standard of behavior or judgment you are referring to, to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "the propriety" when you simply mean 'property'. Propriety refers to the quality of being proper, while property refers to ownership.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the propriety" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples showcase it often refers to an evaluation or questioning of actions and decisions. It indicates a concern with whether something aligns with established standards or expectations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the noun phrase "the propriety" refers to the quality of being proper, correct, or suitable. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and frequently used in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. The phrase is often used to express concerns about or evaluate actions against established norms. When using "the propriety", ensure that the context makes clear what standard is being referenced. Be mindful not to confuse it with "property", which refers to ownership. Alternatives include "the appropriateness", "the correctness", and "the suitability", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the appropriateness

Focuses more directly on suitability or fitness for a specific purpose or situation.

the correctness

Emphasizes accuracy and adherence to standards or rules.

the suitability

Highlights the quality of being right or appropriate for a particular person, purpose, or situation.

the decorum

Refers specifically to dignified propriety of behavior, speech, dress, etc.

the ethicality

Emphasizes the moral correctness or justification of something.

the legitimacy

Focuses on lawfulness or the right to be recognized or accepted.

the acceptability

Highlights whether something is likely to be well received or tolerated.

the respectability

Indicates adherence to social norms and avoidance of disgrace.

the fitness

Stresses the quality of being suitable to fulfill a particular role or task.

the conventionality

Emphasizes conformity to established norms and practices.

FAQs

How is "the propriety" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "the propriety" is used to refer to the quality of being proper, correct, or fitting. For example, "The committee questioned "the propriety" of the investment."

What are some alternatives to using "the propriety"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "the appropriateness", "the correctness", or "the suitability".

Is it correct to say "propriety of" or "propriety in"?

While both can be grammatically correct, "propriety of" is more common when referring to the correctness or appropriateness of an action or decision. "Propriety in" might be used when referring to adhering to standards within a specific context.

What's the difference between "propriety" and "ethics"?

"Propriety" refers to conforming to conventionally accepted standards of behavior or morals, while "ethics" refers to moral principles that govern a person's behavior. Ethics involves deeper moral considerations, whereas propriety is often about adhering to social norms.