Impropriety /ˌɪmprəˈpraɪəti/ is a noun that describes something that is not appropriate or violates accepted social norms. The spelling of this word can be tricky due to its long length and the presence of silent letters. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by an "m" before the silent "p". The "o" in the second syllable is pronounced with a long "i" sound, while the "e" in the last syllable is silent. Remembering the IPA phonetic transcription can help with the accurate spelling of impropriety.
Impropriety is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being improper or inappropriate in thoughts, actions, or behavior. It describes the violation of conventional standards of morality, ethics, or decorum, and is often associated with actions that are considered shameful, indecent, or morally wrong.
In a social context, impropriety can encompass a wide range of behaviors, including but not limited to dishonesty, disrespect, rudeness, and indecency. It can refer to actions that breach social norms, conventions, or expectations, causing discomfort, offense, or embarrassment to others.
In professional settings, impropriety refers to actions that are inconsistent with established rules, regulations, or codes of conduct. It can involve unethical behavior, deceitful practices, conflicts of interest, or any form of wrongdoing that undermines trust, fairness, or integrity.
The concept of impropriety is also present in legal matters, where it can denote actions that infringe upon laws, regulations, or legal customs. It serves as a yardstick to determine whether an act is illegal, harmful, or inconsistent with established legal principles.
Overall, impropriety denotes an absence of proper conduct, often with moral, ethical, or social implications. It highlights actions or behaviors that deviate from accepted standards, customary practices, or established norms, leading to potential consequences such as disapproval, criticism, or even legal sanctions.
• Unsuitableness to character or circumstances; an improper action or speech; an inaccuracy in language; improper fraction, a fraction whose numerator is either equal to or greater than the denominator.
• See improper.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word impropriety finds its origins in the Latin language. It is derived from the Latin word improprius, which is a combination of the prefix in- meaning not or opposite, and the word proprius meaning one's own or appropriate.