improper
adjective
im·prop·er
(ˌ)im-ˈprä-pər 
: not proper: such as
a
: not in accord with propriety, modesty, good manners, or good taste
improper language
b
: not suited to the circumstances, design, or end
improper dress/attire
an improper diet
an improper diagnosis
c
: not regularly or normally formed or not properly so called
d
: not in accord with fact, truth, or right procedure : incorrect
improper inference
improper use of public land
specifically
: in violation of a constitution
denial of trial by jury was held improper
improperly
adverb
improperness
noun
Examples of improper in a Sentence
The doctor gave him an improper diagnosis.
They claim to have evidence of improper police conduct.
improper use of public land
This is an improper diet for a growing teenager.
It would be improper for me to ask such a favor of her.
He made some improper remarks.
Recent Examples on the Web
Anyone who observes unsafe or improper drone operations can contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit a tip online through the FBI's tip portal.
—
Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 12 June 2026
Fragmented oversight and inconsistent systems can create vulnerabilities to fraud, waste and abuse, including overlapping work hours or improper billing, making strong fiscal intermediaries essential to enforce program integrity.
—Miki Kapoor, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026
However, the Supreme Court in several cases has struck down any improper use or desecration of the flag on the grounds of free speech, according to the Library of Congress’ most frequently asked questions about flag law.
—Darleene Powells, Boston Herald, 10 June 2026
Warique Peruvian Restaurant at 3330 Matlock Road, Suite 128, failed a routine health inspection with a score of 49 on June 2, after inspectors observed multiple time and temperature control issues resulting from improper hot and cold holding.
—Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for improper
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Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 12 June 2026
Fragmented oversight and inconsistent systems can create vulnerabilities to fraud, waste and abuse, including overlapping work hours or improper billing, making strong fiscal intermediaries essential to enforce program integrity.
—Miki Kapoor, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026
However, the Supreme Court in several cases has struck down any improper use or desecration of the flag on the grounds of free speech, according to the Library of Congress’ most frequently asked questions about flag law.
—Darleene Powells, Boston Herald, 10 June 2026
Warique Peruvian Restaurant at 3330 Matlock Road, Suite 128, failed a routine health inspection with a score of 49 on June 2, after inspectors observed multiple time and temperature control issues resulting from improper hot and cold holding.
—Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for improper
Cite this Entry
“Improper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/improper. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.
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