Synonyms for

Properly

Verb / ˈprɑ:pɜ:li: / Another word for properly — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

in a way that is correct or appropriate; in the right way

Synonyms & similar words

right decent improperly byrights decently ingoodorder therightway correctly appropriately adequately rightly suitably accurately precisely truly faithfully thoroughly completely perfectly exactly well decently respectably nicely neatly orderly tidily

Synonyms by register

Formal

appropriately correctly suitably fittingly

Informal

right okay decently alright

Literary

aptly meetly

Antonyms

improperly incorrectly wrongly badly poorly inadequately

Common collocations

  • done properly
  • work properly
  • function properly
  • behaved properly
  • speak properly
  • eat properly
  • dressed properly

Word family

noun propriety
adjective proper
adverb properly

Usage note

Often used to indicate that something is done in the correct or expected manner. Can sometimes imply adherence to social conventions or standards.

Example sentences

  1. He properly cleaned his room before going outside to play.
  2. She properly tied her shoes before running in the race.
  3. The teacher properly graded the students' homework.
  4. The chef properly cooked the steak to perfection.
  5. He properly followed the instructions to build the toy.

Quotes

  • "It is not enough to do things properly - you must do the right things." - Winston Churchill
  • "The future belongs to those who prepare for it today." - Malcolm X
  • "The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter - it's the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning." - Mark Twain

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