impropriety

American  

[im-pruh-prahy-i-tee] / ˌɪm prəˈpraɪ ɪ ti /

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.

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impropriety British  

/ ˌɪmprəˈpraɪɪtɪ /

noun

1. lack of propriety; indecency; indecorum

2. an improper act or use

3. the state of being improper

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Etymology

Origin of impropriety

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

Example Sentences

Clark and the union had engaged separate attorneys as federal authorities investigated alleged financial improprieties within the MLBPA, an affiliated licensing company and an affiliated youth sports venture.

From Los Angeles Times

However, Jackson's later years would be punctuated by scandal, including revelations of marital infidelity and financial impropriety involving his son and political heir, Jesse Jackson Jr, who served as a congressman from Illinois.

From BBC

Druckenmiller has been careful about his contact with Bessent since he became Treasury secretary, according to someone close to the investor, to avoid the appearance of impropriety.

From The Wall Street Journal

Some of his colleagues have questioned whether his alleged impropriety should be addressed by the city’s ethics commission rather than a jury.

From Los Angeles Times

By leaving the couple of hours between posts “to me, reeks of some sort of impropriety,” Adami said.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• indecency