What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
improperly
Example
He was driving improperly on the highway, swerving in and out of lanes. [improperly: adverb]
Example
She spoke to her boss improperly during the meeting, interrupting him and speaking out of turn. [improperly: adverb]
inappropriately
Example
He made an inappropriately sexist comment during the job interview. [inappropriately: adverb]
Example
She dressed inappropriately for the wedding, wearing a revealing outfit. [inappropriately: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Improperly is more commonly used in technical or formal contexts, while inappropriately is more commonly used in informal or everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between improperly and inappropriately?
Improperly is more formal than inappropriately, which is more casual and colloquial in tone.
