impropriety

[im-pruh-prahy-i-tee]

noun

plural

improprieties 

1. the quality or condition of being improper; incorrectness.

2. inappropriateness; unsuitableness.

3. unseemliness; indecorousness.

4. an erroneous or unsuitable expression, act, etc.

5. an improper use of a word or phrase.

impropriety

/ ˌɪmprəˈpraɪɪtɪ /

noun

1. lack of propriety; indecency; indecorum

2. an improper act or use

3. the state of being improper

Word History and Origins

Origin of impropriety¹

From the Late Latin word improprietās, dating back to 1605–15. See im- ², propriety

Example Sentences

At a time when the Justice Department was investigating Hillary Clinton, the Democratic nominee for president, the appearance of impropriety prompted a national scandal.

From Los Angeles Times

“The goal of a full investigation is to find out if there really was impropriety,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

He also called voting machines “Highly ‘Inaccurate,’ Very Expensive, and Seriously Controversial,” referring to his lie that he lost the 2020 general election due to voting improprieties.

From Salon

A dramatic scene unfolded Friday morning outside the union’s office, four days after the International Assn. of Fire Fighters suspended Freddy Escobar and two others over financial improprieties, including “serious problems” with missing receipts.

From Los Angeles Times

In his report, Sir Laurie said he had "not identified evidence of improprieties".

From BBC

Related Words

• indecency