Impropriety

Noun

Definition: Failure to observe standards of honesty or modesty; improper behavior or character.

Synonyms: Indecency, Immodesty, Misconduct

Antonyms: Propriety, Decency, Correctness

Examples:

His constant flirtations with his employees showed a clear impropriety.
The politician was accused of financial improprieties during his campaign.

Mnemonics:

Think of "improper" as an adjective form of impropriety, which can help remember its meaning.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English from Old French impropriete, from Latin improprietas, from improprius 'not proper'.

Historical Usage:

Impropriety has been used to describe improper behavior or conduct since its origin in the Late Middle English period.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Toe the line of impropriety"

Explanation:

To engage in behavior that is bordering on being improper or inappropriate.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing impropriety with propriety.

Explanation:

Impropriety means acting in an improper or morally inappropriate manner, while propriety refers to conforming to conventional standards of behavior or morality.