properly
Americanadverb
-
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.
-
correctly.
His recent statement gave the wrong impression and does not properly reflect where he stands on the issue.
-
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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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Mark Walter’s insurance empire is under investigation by federal authorities — and the subject of discussions with state regulators — over allegations the businesses he controls failed to properly follow laws designed to protect investors.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 16, 2026
Ministers say they will ensure the scheme is working properly.
From BBC ● Oct. 16, 2026
Over time, these defective proteins accumulate, placing stress on cells and interfering with their ability to function properly.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 16, 2026
“The goal here is to work with Matt and his team to generate footage that will integrate seamlessly with what’s already been shot so Matt can properly finish his film.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 16, 2026
There had been hundreds of CDO deals—400 billion dollars’ worth of the things had been created in just the past three years—and yet none, as far as they could tell, had been properly vetted.
From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
