this is improper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is improper" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is not appropriate or acceptable in a given context. Example: "In a professional setting, using slang can be seen as unprofessional; this is improper behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

He thinks this is improper and wraps her in his overcoat.

The New Yorker

"I obviously think that this is improper," said Mr. Saleh, who represents six Middle Eastern clients detained in the recent investigations.

The New York Times

"When an employee is forced to pay from his own pocket for an expenditure by the prime minister, this is improper administration and it makes no difference whether the sum is large or small".

The Guardian

"This is improper behavior for a researcher," the Asahi Shimbun's online article quoted Morita as saying after a meeting of the committee Thursday evening.

Science Magazine

The practice of the PAP endorsing a candidate has led to criticisms that this is improper as the Government is essentially "revealing who they would rather have as their supervisor".

Wikipedia

This is improper, but widely tolerated in some of the largest sects that call themselves Christian.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

This was improper.

Independent

"None of this was improper.

The Guardian - Sport

Still, Mr. Green testified, he did not think this was improper or was intended to keep the material away from investigators.

The New York Times

According to Yates, this was improper because he could not have had fair notice that a fish would be considered a "tangible object" for purposes of §1519.

The Washington Post

In May the House of Commons standards committee ruled that this was improper but admitted the rules were confusing; it allowed the shadow cabinet four weeks to declare similar donations.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this is improper", ensure the context clearly defines what standard or expectation is being violated. Specificity strengthens your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "improper" in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler words like "wrong" or "inappropriate" would suffice. "Improper" can sound stilted in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is improper" functions as a declarative statement, expressing disapproval or judgment regarding a particular action, behavior, or situation. As Ludwig AI illustrates, it is frequently used to denote that something violates established norms or expectations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

32%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is improper" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to convey that something is not appropriate or acceptable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears across various domains, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, although it is not exceedingly common. When using "this is improper", ensure clarity in the context and consider simpler alternatives like "inappropriate" or "unacceptable" for informal settings. Remember to check all these details before using this expression in a formal context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is unacceptable

Emphasizes the lack of permissibility or approval, highlighting a stronger sense of rejection.

this is inappropriate

Focuses on the lack of suitability for a particular context or situation.

this is not right

Indicates a deviation from what is morally or ethically correct.

this is out of line

Suggests that a boundary or limit has been crossed, making the action unacceptable.

this is unethical

Highlights a violation of moral principles or professional standards.

this is unprofessional

Points out behavior that is not suitable for a business or work environment.

this is a breach of protocol

Indicates a failure to follow established rules or procedures.

this is misconduct

Suggests a more serious transgression or wrongdoing.

this is a violation

Emphasizes the breaking of a rule, law, or agreement.

this is beyond the pale

Conveys that something is completely unacceptable or outrageous.

FAQs

What does "this is improper" mean?

The phrase "this is improper" indicates that something is not appropriate, acceptable, or in accordance with established rules or standards. It suggests a deviation from what is considered correct or ethical.

What can I say instead of "this is improper"?

You can use alternatives like "this is inappropriate", "this is unacceptable", or "this is not right" depending on the specific context and the level of formality required.

How formal is the phrase "this is improper"?

The phrase "this is improper" is relatively formal and is often used in professional, academic, or official contexts. In casual situations, simpler alternatives might be more suitable.

Is "this is improper" the same as "this was improper"?

While both phrases convey disapproval, "this is improper" refers to a current or general state of inappropriateness, whereas "this was improper" refers to a past action or situation that was not appropriate at the time.