properly
Americanadverb
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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.
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correctly.
His recent statement gave the wrong impression and does not properly reflect where he stands on the issue.
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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
Etymology
Origin of properly
Vocabulary lists containing properly
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.
Nitric oxide helps blood vessels relax and function properly, which is important for healthy blood pressure regulation.
From Science Daily • May 25, 2026
Scientists have long believed that this kind of pain may begin when mitochondria, the tiny structures that produce energy inside cells, stop working properly in damaged nerves.
From Science Daily • May 24, 2026
As for the top mechanism, it’s properly described as a powered targa top.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 23, 2026
If issuers like SpaceX can properly time lock-up expiries, they may be able to prevent huge selloffs when new shares become available.
From Barron's • May 22, 2026
“Grubby at first glance, but if planted properly and given some sunlight and time to grow, they can blossom quite nicely.”
From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
