improper applies to a broader range of transgressions of rules not only of social behavior but of ethical practice or logical procedure or prescribed method.

1. not proper; not strictly belonging, applicable, or correct: drew improper conclusions. 2. not in accordance with propriety or regulations: improper conduct. 3. abnormal; irregular.

improper adjective (WRONG) unsuitable or not correct for a particular use or occasion: improper prescription of medicines

Definition of improper adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

If you describe someone's behavior as improper, you mean it is rude or shocking or in some way socially unacceptable. Such improper behavior and language from a young lady left me …

Improper has a wide range, being applied to whatever is not suitable or fitting, and often specifically to what does not conform to the standards of conventional morality: improper diet; …

IMPROPER definition: not proper; not strictly belonging, applicable, correct, etc.; erroneous. See examples of improper used in a sentence.

There are five meanings listed in OED's entry for the adjective improper, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Nov 30, 2025 · improper (comparative more improper, superlative most improper) Unsuitable to needs or circumstances; inappropriate; inapt. Not in keeping with conventional mores or good …

The words unseemly and improper are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, unseemly adds a suggestion of special inappropriateness to a situation or an offensiveness to good taste.