properly

[prop-er-lee]

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.

Other Word Forms

• unproperly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of properly¹

proper ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Two-thirds of livestock companies surveyed by an investor group aren’t properly managing potential water shortages, “indicating widespread failure to manage water-related risks effectively,” according to a report published on Tuesday.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

The SEC is investigating whether MassMutual properly reconciled accrued interest as it received payments on loans held in its general investment account, the people familiar with the matter said.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

But enforcing sanctions properly will mean higher prices at the pump for Americans.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

“All water transported to the estate—whether from Southern Water or other sources—has been lawfully and properly extracted, purchased, transported and used,” she said.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

"And we also know that not all of it is being taxed properly."

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• accordingly 
• accurately 
• perfectly 
• well