improper

[ im-prop-er ]
/ ɪmˈprɒp ər /

adjective

not proper; not strictly belonging, applicable, correct, etc.; erroneous: He drew improper conclusions from the scant evidence.
not in accordance with propriety of behavior, manners, etc.: improper conduct at a funeral.
unsuitable or inappropriate, as for the purpose or occasion: improper attire for a formal dance.
abnormal or irregular: improper functioning of the speech mechanism.

Origin of improper

From the Latin word improprius, dating back to 1535–45. See im-2, proper

SYNONYMS FOR improper

2 indecorous. Improper, indecent, unbecoming, unseemly are applied to that which is unfitting or not in accordance with propriety. Improper has a wide range, being applied to whatever is not suitable or fitting, and often specifically to what does not conform to the standards of conventional morality: improper diet; improper behavior in church; improper language. Indecent, a strong word, is applied to what is offensively contrary to standards of propriety and especially of modesty: indecent behavior, literature. Unbecoming is applied to what is especially unfitting in the person concerned: conduct unbecoming a minister. Unseemly is applied to whatever is unfitting or improper under the circumstances: unseemly mirth.

OTHER WORDS FROM improper

im·prop·er·ly, adverb im·prop·er·ness, noun

Example sentences from the Web for improper

British Dictionary definitions for improper

improper
/ (ɪmˈprɒpə) /

adjective

lacking propriety; not seemly or fitting
unsuitable for a certain use or occasion; inappropriate an improper use for a tool
irregular or abnormal

Derived forms of improper

improperly, adverb improperness, noun