impropriety
im·pro·pri·e·ty
noun \ˌim-p(r)ə-ˈprī-ə-tē\ plural im·pro·pri·e·ties
Definition of IMPROPRIETY
1
: an improper or indecorous act or remark; especially : an unacceptable use of a word or of language
2
: the quality or state of being improper
See Examples of IMPROPRIETY
- He has a reputation for impropriety.
- The judge excused herself from the case to avoid any appearance of impropriety.
- She was shocked by the young man's impropriety.
- She was shocked by the impropriety of his behavior.
- He has been accused of financial improprieties.
Origin of IMPROPRIETY
French or Late Latin; French impropriété, from Late Latin improprietat-, improprietas, from Latin improprius
First Known Use: 1607
Related to IMPROPRIETY
Synonyms: inappropriateness, incorrectness, indecency, indecorousness, indecorum, indelicateness, unbecomingness, unseemliness, untowardness
Antonyms: appropriateness, correctness, decency, decorousness, decorum, fitness, properness, propriety, rightness, seemliness, suitability, suitableness
Related Words: coarseness, crudeness, vulgarity; immodesty, naughtiness; imprudence, indiscreetness, indiscretion; churlishness, discourteousness, disrespect, impertinence, impoliteness, impudence, incivility, inconsiderateness, inconsideration, insolence, rudeness, ungraciousness
Near Antonyms: discretion, prudence; etiquette, form, manners, proprieties; considerateness, consideration, genteelness, gentility, graciousness, thoughtfulness
Rhymes with IMPROPRIETY
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