— improperly , adv. — improperness , n.
/im prop"euhr/ , adj.
1. not proper; not strictly belonging, applicable, correct, etc.; erroneous: He drew improper conclusions from the scant evidence.
2. not in accordance with propriety of behavior, manners, etc.: improper conduct at a funeral.
3. unsuitable or inappropriate, as for the purpose or occasion: improper attire for a formal dance.
4. abnormal or irregular: improper functioning of the speech mechanism.
[ 1535-45; improprius. See IM- 2 , PROPER ]
Syn. 1-3. inapplicable, unsuited, unfit. 2. indecorous. IMPROPER, INDECENT, UNBECOMING, UNSEEMLY are applied to that which is unfitting or not in accordance with propriety. 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 behavior in church; improper language.
INDECENT, a strong word, is applied to what is offensively contrary to standards of propriety and esp. of modesty: indecent behavior, literature. UNBECOMING is applied to what is esp. unfitting in the person concerned: conduct unbecoming a minister. UNSEEMLY is applied to whatever is unfitting or improper under the circumstances: unseemly mirth.
Ant. 1, 3. fitting, suitable. 2. proper.