improper
UK: ɪmˈprɒpə | US: ɪmˈprɑːpər
adj. not suitable or appropriate for a purpose
adj. not conforming to accepted standards or norms
adj. lacking correctness or accuracy
The word "improper" originates from Latin improprius, combining the negative prefix in- (later assimilated to im- before "p") and proprius ("one's own, correct"). The term evolved through Old French impropre before entering Middle English. The prefix im- negates the root proper, which derives from Latin proprius, meaning "fitting" or "appropriate." Over time, "improper" came to describe actions or behaviors deviating from societal or logical norms, retaining its core structure of negation + correctness.
Wearing jeans to a formal event is considered improper.
The teacher corrected the student's improper use of grammar.
His improper conduct during the meeting offended several colleagues.
The machine malfunctioned due to improper maintenance.
She received a warning for improper handling of confidential documents.