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propriety

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "propriety": Propriety refers to the state of conforming to conventionally accepted standards of behavior or mora

What does "propriety" mean?

Propriety refers to the state of conforming to conventionally accepted standards of behavior or morals. The mental image is one of a person who knows exactly how to act, dress, or speak in a polite society, avoiding anything that might be considered crude or inappropriate. It is a formal term often used to discuss social etiquette or moral correctness. You will frequently hear it in phrases like "a sense of propriety," which suggests an intuitive understanding of what is considered "proper" or "decent" in a given situation.

"propriety" in conversation

Discussing workplace conduct

Do you think wearing jeans to the client meeting is okay?

Do you think wearing jeans to the client meeting is okay?

Probably not. It’s better to maintain a sense of propriety in front of the board.

Probably not. It’s better to maintain a sense of propriety in front of the board.

Used here to describe professional standards.

After a heated argument

I’m sorry I raised my voice earlier; it was quite rude.

I’m sorry I raised my voice earlier; it was quite rude.

I appreciate that. It’s important to observe the proprieties even when we disagree.

I appreciate that. It’s important to observe the proprieties even when we disagree.

Note the use of 'the proprieties' to refer to established social rules.

"propriety" in a sentence

  1. She behaved with great propriety during the dinner.

    She behaved with great propriety during the dinner.

  2. The host was concerned about the propriety of the guest's loud jokes.

    The host was concerned about the propriety of the guest's loud jokes.

  3. He questioned the propriety of the CEO accepting such an expensive gift from a supplier.

    He questioned the propriety of the CEO accepting such an expensive gift from a supplier.

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