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.
Alberts, an award-winning chemist, worries that the administration will not properly fund scientific endeavors, leading to economic setbacks with fewer advancements made.
From Salon • May 7, 2026
Without insulin, the body cannot properly absorb glucose from the bloodstream, leading to dangerous blood sugar levels.
From Science Daily • May 6, 2026
But the rules weren’t properly enforced, the people said.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026
But she says it can also be disruptive if not used properly.
From BBC • May 1, 2026
One of them, Cupid, had been sick a year earlier, and Washington ordered that he be cared for properly and seen by a doctor in the main house.
From "In the Shadow of Liberty" by Kenneth C. Davis
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.
