properly
English meaning: Properly
Definition
In a proper manner, appropriately, suitably; correctly, justifiably
Example
“Make sure the lid is closed properly before you shake the bottle.”
Another example: “If the heating isn't working properly, call the landlord.”
Usage — When, Where & How
Adverb meaning in the correct, suitable or appropriate way ('do it properly'). Very common in everyday British and general English; can also mean 'fully' or 'genuinely' in informal British use ('properly cold today'). Contrasts with 'improperly'.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From Old French propre 'one's own, particular', from Latin proprius, plus the adverbial -ly, dating to the 14th century.
Synonyms
- correctly
- suitably
- appropriately
- adequately
- rightly
- fittingly
Antonyms / Opposites
- improperly
- incorrectly
- wrongly
Related Words
- understood
- functioning
- trained
- equipped
- speaking
- proper
- unless
- addressed
- understand
- implemented
Common Collocations
- work properly
- done properly
- function properly
- behave properly
- properly trained
- not properly
Word Forms
proper (adj); properly (adv); propriety (n)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
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Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B