proper

adjective
UK: /ˈprɒp.ər/
US: /ˈprɑː.pər/

  1. Correct or suitable for a specific situation or purpose.

    1. Please use the proper tools for this job to avoid damage. [ ] [ ]
    2. Is now the proper time to discuss the financial results of this project? [ ] [ ]

  2. Following accepted social standards or customs.

    1. It is proper to say 'thank you' after receiving a gift. [ ] [ ]
    2. She always uses proper etiquette when attending formal dinner parties. [ ] [ ]

  3. Belonging or relating to only one person, thing, place, etc.

    1. The word 'Japan' is a proper noun. [ ] [ ]
    2. Each student must fill out the proper forms before enrolling in classes. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

appropriate correct right decent suitable
proper verb

  1. To restore to a condition of correctness or suitability.

    1. We need to proper the accounts before the audit. [ ] [ ]
    2. The gardener will proper the soil before planting new flowers. [ ] [ ]
proper adverb

  1. In a correct or appropriate way.

    1. Please dispose of the waste paper proper. [ ] [ ]
    2. The device was tested proper before being released to the market. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "proper" in English means: Correct or suitable for a specific situation or purpose., Following accepted social standards or customs., Belonging or relating to only one person, thing, place, etc..

The phonetic transcription of "proper" is /ˈprɒp.ər/ in British English and /ˈprɑː.pər/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "proper": appropriate, correct, right, decent, suitable.

Example usage of "proper": "Please use the proper tools for this job to avoid damage.". More examples on the page.