Definition

The quality of being inappropriate or not suitable in behavior or actions.

Example

His improperness at the formal event made everyone uncomfortable.

Conversation

Did you notice how he behaved at the party last night?

Yeah, it was a bit surprising, to be honest.

I couldn't believe he showed such improperness in front of everyone.

Right? It made things really awkward for all of us.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Improperness is formed from "im-" (meaning not) and "proper" (from Latin "proprius", meaning one's own or suitable) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state of being). The word refers to the state of not being suitable or appropriate.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('im-') being added to 'suitable' ('proper') to remember that 'improperness' means the state of being not suitable.

Visually Confused Words