properly

American  

[prop-er-lee] / ˈprɒp ər li /

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.

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Other Word Forms

• unproperly adverb

Etymology

Origin of properly

proper ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Pay the extra money to fix the patio if it annoys you, and let go of your frustration around the guy who did not do the job properly.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026

In recent weeks, Ford issued separate recalls related to software problems with center screens and another for a software issue that could cause brake lights and turn signals in attached trailers to not function properly.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

There have been local protests and some politicians objected with councillor Rachel Millward telling the BBC the Home Office had not engaged with the community or properly detailed the plans.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

When she awakened the next day, she said, her left side wasn’t working properly and she was having trouble speaking clearly.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

When she’d told me to drop off the laundry at Sam Kee, it had seemed like the first time I’d properly heard her voice all week.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

Related Words

• accordingly
• accurately
• perfectly
• well