properly

American  

[prop-er-lee] / ˈprɒp ər li /

adverb

1. in a way that is appropriate to the purpose or circumstances; suitably.

   Students should ensure that a current valid parking permit is properly displayed on their vehicle.

2. correctly.

   His recent statement gave the wrong impression and does not properly reflect where he stands on the issue.

3. in a way that conforms to established standards of behavior or manners.

   They usually dress very properly, but sometimes a bit daringly, hoping to start the latest new trend.

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Other Word Forms

• unproperly adverb

Etymology

Origin of properly

proper ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

“However, these protections were not in place. They were not applied properly and these weaknesses appear to have been pre-existing.”

From The Wall Street Journal

It was as the morning interview and phone-in show host on LBC from 1976 that he properly began to make a name for himself.

From BBC

“Placing assets in a properly structured trust can protect them from fraud and undue influence. In cases of diminished capacity, legal guardianship may be necessary to prevent financial abuse.”

From MarketWatch

And throughout the complex, home to nearly 5,000 people, fire-department officials and residents said that fire alarms weren’t properly functioning.

From The Wall Street Journal

"We cannot be arrogant. If we don't prepare properly, we know what happens. We have to start with intensity, stay within our standards, and give everything."

From Barron's

Related Words

• accordingly
• accurately
• perfectly
• well