Proper
/ˈprɒpər/
Definitions
3 meaningsConforming to accepted standards; suitable or appropriate.
/ˈprɒpər/
Suitable or appropriate
It is proper to wear a suit to a formal event.
💡 Simply: Being the right thing to do or say. Like, it's proper to say "thank you" when someone gives you a present.
👶 For kids: Being the right way to do something. Like, it's proper to say 'please' and 'thank you'.
More Examples
The teacher felt the student's behavior wasn't proper in class.
She made a proper apology for her mistake.
How It's Used
"It is proper to thank someone for a gift."
"Proper dining etiquette involves using the correct utensils."
Belonging to a particular person or thing.
/ˈprɒpər/
Strictly belonging to someone or something; not shared.
The car is his proper responsibility.
💡 Simply: Belonging to someone or something specifically. Like, this is MY proper pen.
👶 For kids: Belonging to one person or thing. Like, that's my proper toy.
More Examples
A proper noun is capitalized.
The library's proper collection of books is vast.
How It's Used
"The land is his proper estate."
"A proper noun is a name, like 'John' or 'London'."
Being truly what a thing is called; real.
/ˈprɒpər/
They make a proper job of the renovation.
💡 Simply: It's truly what it's meant to be. Like, if someone is a 'proper artist,' it means they're a REALLY good artist.
👶 For kids: The real thing. Like, that's a proper toy, not a pretend one!
More Examples
It was a proper disaster.
She's a proper English rose, all sweet and shy.
How It's Used
"He felt like a proper fool."
"She's a proper artist"
Synonyms
Appropriate
Correct
Fitting
Individual
Own
Particular
Authentic
Genuine
Idioms & expressions
proper noun
A noun that is the name of a specific person, place, or thing, usually capitalized.
"London is a proper noun."
proper job
To do something well or thoroughly.
"They made a proper job of the kitchen remodel."
From Middle English *propre*, from Old French *propre* ('own, particular, fitting'), from Latin *proprius* ('one's own, particular').
The word 'proper' has been used since the 13th century, evolving from its original meaning of 'belonging to oneself.'
Memory tip
Think of the word 'propriety' - doing what's right and fitting.