adv B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

improperly

ihm-PRAH-p-lee

Improperly (adv) means In a manner that is not suitable, correct, or appropriate. Example: “The funds were improperly used for personal expenses.”

adv

In a manner that is not suitable, correct, or appropriate.

"The funds were improperly used for personal expenses."

"He was accused of behaving improperly toward a colleague."

How to use improperly

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDone incorrectly or inappropriately.

Common pairings

improperly stored improperly used behave improperly

Word forms

more improperly comparative, most improperly superlative

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The funds were _____ used for personal expenses.

Etymology

From improper + -ly.

Rhymes for improperly

overly miserly orderly elderly utterly eagerly Beverly Waverly fatherly motherly properly westerly

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Frequently asked questions

What does “improperly” mean?

The word “improperly” means in a manner that is not suitable, correct, or appropriate. In plain terms, done incorrectly or inappropriately.

How do you pronounce “improperly”?

“Improperly” is pronounced ihm-PRAH-p-lee (/ɪmˈpɹɑ.pɚ.li/ in IPA).

How do you use “improperly” in a sentence?

Here is “improperly” used in a sentence: “The funds were improperly used for personal expenses.”

What part of speech is “improperly”?

“Improperly” is an adverb.

Is “improperly” a common word?

“Improperly” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.