improper

[im-prop-er] / ɪmˈprɒp ər /

ADJECTIVE

not suitable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

awkward erroneous false ill-advised imprudent inaccurate inadmissible inappropriate incorrect irregular unwarranted wrong

WEAK

abnormal at odds bad form discordant discrepant ill-timed inadvisable inapplicable inapposite inapt incongruous inexpedient infelicitous inharmonious inopportune ludicrous malapropos odd off-base out of place out-of-season preposterous unapt unbefitting uncalled-for uncomely undue unfit unfitting unseasonable unsuitable unsuited untimely

Antonyms

STRONGEST

OK acceptable accurate appropriate correct honest reasonable right suitable true valid wise

WEAK

de rigueur decent fitting formal good moral proper uncorrupt

ADJECTIVE

vulgar, immoral

Synonyms

STRONGEST

indecent unethical unjust unseemly untoward wrong wrongful

WEAK

blue dirty impolite indecorous indelicate lewd malodorous naughty risqué rough salacious suggestive unbecoming unconventional unequitable ungodly unrighteous unrightful

Antonyms

STRONGEST

acceptable appropriate decent ethical fair good honest just moral proper right suitable

WEAK

correct fitting formal uncorrupt

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He said the company self-reported improper conduct by an individual employee during that period.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

"It is illegal and improper because there is no risk of him fleeing or avoiding questioning," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

Other suspected fraud schemes involve enrolling beneficiaries without their consent and improper billing practices.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 24, 2026

"The Court therefore finds that the subpoenas were issued for an improper purpose and will quash them."

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

It was improper to wear the tassels hanging out when in the presence of the dead.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros