noun
impropriety
ihm-pruh-PREYE-ih-tee
Impropriety (noun) means Behaviour or an action that is unsuitable or improper, especially by breaking a social or moral standard. Example: “The official resigned after allegations of financial impropriety.”
noun
1
Behaviour or an action that is unsuitable or improper, especially by breaking a social or moral standard.
"The official resigned after allegations of financial impropriety."
"There was a sense of impropriety in how the meeting was conducted."
How to use impropriety
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishImproper or inappropriate behaviour, especially of a moral or professional kind.
When to use it
A fairly formal word, common in news reports about officials, business, or ethics.
Common pairings
financial impropriety
allegations of impropriety
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Word forms
- Plural
- improprieties
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The official resigned after allegations of financial _____.
Etymology
From French impropriété, from Latin improprietas; equivalent to improper + -ty.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for impropriety
See all rhymes for impropriety →Frequently asked questions
What does “impropriety” mean?
The word “impropriety” means behaviour or an action that is unsuitable or improper, especially by breaking a social or moral standard. In plain terms, improper or inappropriate behaviour, especially of a moral or professional kind.
How do you pronounce “impropriety”?
“Impropriety” is pronounced ihm-pruh-PREYE-ih-tee (/ˌɪm.pɹəˈpɹaɪ.ɪ.ti/ in IPA).
How do you use “impropriety” in a sentence?
Here is “impropriety” used in a sentence: “The official resigned after allegations of financial impropriety.”
What part of speech is “impropriety”?
“Impropriety” is a noun.
Where does the word “impropriety” come from?
The word “impropriety” comes from Latin. From French impropriété, from Latin improprietas; equivalent to improper + -ty.
