Impropriety

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪmˌprəʊˈpraɪəti/

Definitions

• The quality or state of being improper or inappropriate.
• A specific act, behavior, or conduct that is morally or socially unacceptable.
• A violation of established norms or standards.

Usage Examples

• The impropriety of his actions was immediately apparent to everyone in the room.
• She was reprimanded for the impropriety of her remarks during the meeting.

Etymology

The word "impropriety" comes from the Latin *improprius*, meaning "inappropriate" or "not one's own," with the suffix *-ity*, which turns adjectives into nouns indicating a state or condition. The word has been in use in English since the 16th century.

Synonyms

• Misconduct
• Inappropriateness
• Improperness
• Indecency
• Unseemliness

Antonyms

• Properness
• Decency
• Correctness
• Respectability
• Appropriateness

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

US: /ɪmˌprəʊˈpraɪəti/ — UK: /ɪmˌprəʊˈpraɪəti/ — Spain: /imˈpɾopjeðað/ — France: /ɛ̃.pʁo.pʁi.e.te/ — Italy: /imˈprɔːpriɛˈta/

Historical Usage

The word *impropriety* has been used in English since the 16th century, primarily to describe actions or behaviors that violated the accepted norms of social decorum or law. It was often used in legal and ethical contexts to refer to behaviors that were deemed inappropriate or unacceptable according to moral or societal standards.

Cultural Nuances

Impropriety often carries a strong moral connotation, with a focus on the failure to meet socially established norms. In different cultures, the notion of what constitutes impropriety can vary widely. In some cultures, impropriety may refer to a minor breach of etiquette, while in others, it may be associated with more severe ethical or legal violations. Cultural perceptions of impropriety are often influenced by history, religion, and social values.

More Information

Impropriety refers to the act of deviating from accepted standards, whether in behavior, speech, or actions. It can involve anything from minor social faux pas to serious ethical violations. In modern discourse, impropriety is commonly referenced in the context of professional conduct, public figures, and legal settings. The term suggests a lack of propriety and often carries the implication of a failure to uphold expected moral or legal codes.