properly

adverb

ˈprä-pər-lē How to pronounce properly (audio)
Definition of properlynext
as in correctly
in a manner suitable for the occasion or purpose the scouts were properly dressed for a week of camping

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of properly The parents also allegedly knew their son had mental health problems and was a threat to others but did not properly address the issues by putting him into counseling or therapy. — Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 20 Oct. 2026 One hand washing sink in food prep area is not working properly. — Nwa Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 19 Oct. 2026 Beyond that, users should devote care to properly securing the media servers. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 19 Oct. 2026 Government attorneys counter that Congress properly restricted where spirits can be distilled to prevent producers from evading federal excise taxes. — Michael Kunzelman, Fortune, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for properly
Recent Examples of Synonyms for properly
  1. correctly
  2. appropriately
Adverb
  • Additionally, Marshall has correctly noted that gas prices were higher during former President Joe Biden’s administration, peaking above $5 nationally.
    — Dylan Lysen, Kansas City Star, 22 Oct. 2026
  • An agent could be properly authenticated, correctly authorized and operating within its guardrails.
    — Shekhar Iyer, Forbes.com, 20 Oct. 2026
Definition of correctly
Adverb
  • The entire piece is, appropriately enough, too big to take in in one glance; a viewer must step from side to side, and peer and squint, to make any sense of it.
    — Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Fuel Check was announced as part of an effort to make sure gas station operators are charging appropriately following the suspension of the tax.
    — Eva Flowe October 22, Charlotte Observer, 22 Oct. 2026
Definition of appropriately

Browse Nearby Words

proper
properly
properness
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Cite this Entry

“Properly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/properly. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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