improperly
adv. manneradv. in a way that is not correct, honest, or suitable for a situation. You use this when someone does something the wrong way or breaks a rule.
adv. in a manner that is incorrect, unsuitable, or dishonest. Often describes actions that violate formal procedures, social norms, or technical requirements.
The machine broke because it was used improperly.
The committee found that the funds had been handled improperly, leading to a full investigation of the department's finances.
If the evidence is collected improperly by the authorities, the judge may rule it inadmissible during the trial, regardless of its potential relevance to the case.
From Middle English improprelich, impropreliche, impropurly, inproperlye; equivalent to improper + -ly or im- + properly.
Typically follows the verb or the direct object it modifies.
He behaved improper during the meeting.He behaved improperly during the meeting.Learners often use the adjective 'improper' when the adverbial form 'improperly' is required to modify a verb.