through proper channels

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "through proper channels" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something should be done in an official or appropriate manner, often referring to the correct procedures or protocols. Example: "If you have a complaint, please submit it through proper channels to ensure it is addressed appropriately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Submitted overtime slips through proper channels.

The New Yorker

Collaery has previously said the pair acted through proper channels to raise concerns about the operation.

The Guardian

"If you launch technology like this on the scale of a city, then you need to go through proper channels.

The Guardian - Tech

Other men in power at the time have said that Mr Felt should have worked through proper channels.

The Economist

The idea that Snowden could have gone through "proper channels" to make change happen just seems ludicrous.

Independent

But I, and my colleagues, by engaging through proper channels, won't be disrupting anything; in fact we often make ourselves pretty easy to ignore.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

If the exhibit is flesh, then instantaneously it is put in sterile metallic container, packed with ice/dry ice or in liquid nitrogen if available, which is then immediately shipped to the forensic laboratory through proper channel.

Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences

We want to bring abortionists to justice through the proper channels, through legal means.

Los Angeles Times

We're going to take it through the proper channels.

The New York Times - Sports

"I need to go through the proper channels.

The New York Times

At least it was delivered through the proper channels, and sounded grateful.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to emphasize the need to follow established rules, use "through proper channels" to ensure your message is clear. This highlights the importance of formality and procedure.

Common error

Don't bypass "through proper channels" in an attempt to expedite a process. Doing so can lead to complications or invalidate the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "through proper channels" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, indicating the manner or method by which an action is carried out. It emphasizes adherence to established procedures and protocols, as supported by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "through proper channels" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that emphasizes the importance of adhering to established procedures and protocols. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent use across various authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. It is particularly relevant in professional and formal contexts, where compliance and accountability are paramount. When communicating the need to follow established rules, employing this phrase clarifies the importance of formality and procedure. However, avoid bypassing "through proper channels" in an attempt to expedite processes, as this can potentially lead to complications and invalidate outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through official avenues

This alternative emphasizes the official nature of the procedure, focusing on authorized routes.

through established processes

Focuses on processes that are set and followed systematically.

according to established protocols

This phrase highlights the adherence to predefined and accepted rules or guidelines.

by adhering to protocol

Similar to 'established protocols' but focuses on the act of adhering.

via the correct procedure

This focuses on using the procedure that is right for the situation.

via the designated procedure

This emphasizes that there's a specific, appointed way of doing something.

through the appropriate means

This option broadens the scope to include any suitable method, not just formal ones.

by following the rules

This is a more general and simplified way of saying the same thing, suitable for less formal contexts.

in the prescribed manner

Highlights that the method used is specifically directed or advised.

in compliance with regulations

This alternative stresses adherence to legal or formal requirements.

FAQs

How do you use "through proper channels" in a sentence?

You can use "through proper channels" to indicate that a procedure or request should follow established protocols. For instance, "All complaints must be submitted "through proper channels" to ensure they are properly addressed."

What is a good alternative to "through proper channels"?

Alternatives include phrases like "through official avenues", "according to established protocols", or "via the designated procedure", depending on the context.

Is it better to go "through proper channels" or directly to someone?

Generally, going "through proper channels" is advisable as it ensures accountability and adherence to rules. Bypassing these channels might lead to procedural errors or lack of official recognition.

What does it mean to submit something "through proper channels"?

Submitting something "through proper channels" means following the established procedures and protocols for submitting a request, complaint, or any other official document. This ensures it reaches the correct department or individual and is processed according to the rules.