properness
properness — noun
1. behavior that follows accepted social or moral standards, showing what people co
behavior that follows accepted social or moral standards, showing what people consider correct and suitable in a given situation.
Tara's grandmother taught her that properness in speech is as important as in dress.
collocation: properness in [area]
The school rules about properness seemed old-fashioned to the new exchange students.
Emre showed great properness during the ceremony by waiting to be introduced first.
Visitors were impressed by the properness of the formal dinner arrangements.
Sari's properness in handling customer complaints set a good example for the junior staff.
- propriety
more formal; specifically about social etiquette and conventions
- decorum
formal; focuses on dignified, polite behavior in public settings
- correctness
broader meaning; includes accuracy as well as social appropriateness
- impropriety
behavior that breaks social rules or is considered unsuitable
- indecorum
formal; behavior that lacks dignity or politeness
用法筆記
Similar to 'propriety', but slightly less formal. 'Propriety' more strongly emphasizes social etiquette, while 'properness' can also cover moral correctness. Both are used mainly in formal or written contexts.