impropriety
n. C / U C1 Advanced US //ˌɪmpɹəˈpɹaɪəti// UK //ɪmpɹəpɹˈaɪəti// im·pro·pri·ety
n. behavior that is not appropriate or goes against what is considered right and proper. It often involves a lack of good manners or a failure to follow social rules.
n. behavior or conduct that is inappropriate, indecent, or contrary to established social or professional standards. Often implies a lack of decorum or a breach of etiquette.
The politician was accused of financial impropriety.
The committee investigated the incident to determine if there was any impropriety in the hiring process.
While the gesture was intended as a sign of friendship, it was viewed as a serious impropriety in the formal atmosphere of the diplomatic mission.
From French impropriété, from Latin improprietās. By surface analysis, improper + -iety or im- + propriety.