improper applies to a broader range of transgressions of rules not only of social behavior but of ethical practice or logical procedure or prescribed method.

Improper conditions or methods of treatment are not suitable or good enough for a particular purpose.

improper adjective (WRONG) unsuitable or not correct for a particular use or occasion: improper prescription of medicines

Definition of improper adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

1. not proper; not strictly belonging, applicable, or correct: drew improper conclusions. 2. not in accordance with propriety or regulations: improper conduct. 3. abnormal; irregular.

IMPROPER definition: not proper; not strictly belonging, applicable, correct, etc.; erroneous. See examples of improper used in a sentence.

Improper has a wide range, being applied to whatever is not suitable or fitting, and often specifically to what does not conform to the standards of conventional morality: improper diet; …

Nov 30, 2025 · improper (comparative more improper, superlative most improper) Unsuitable to needs or circumstances; inappropriate; inapt. Not in keeping with conventional mores or good …

It would be improper for me to ask such a favor of her. He made some improper remarks. He came to school improperly dressed. She pronounced the word improperly.

There are five meanings listed in OED's entry for the adjective improper, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.