adverb
properly
Correctly or in a suitable way.
The door closes properly once you tighten the loose hinge.
Etymology
Proper developed the sense of being fitting or appropriate. Properly applies that judgment to how something is done: in the correct or suitable way.
More examples
- Wash your hands properly before you prepare food.
- These boots fit properly even with thick socks.
- She is properly dressed for the formal dinner.
Forms
properly · more properly · most properly
proper adjective — Correct or suitable for a particular situation.
Similar words
- correctly
- Emphasizes freedom from errors rather than suitability to circumstances.
- appropriately
- Emphasizes suitability to a particular situation or social setting.