Proper
Proper adjective - Following the established traditions of refined society and good taste.
Usage example: the formal ball called for proper attire—tuxedos and full-length gowns only
Respectable is a synonym for proper in courtesy topic. In some cases you can use "Respectable" instead an adjective "Proper", when it comes to topics like polite, mannerly, respected. popular alternative
Respectable
Respectable adjective - Following the accepted rules of moral conduct.
Usage example: cheating is not a respectable thing to do under any circumstances
Proper is a synonym for respectable in good topic. You can use "Proper" instead an adjective "Respectable", if it concerns topics such as courtesy, reputable, honourable, respected. popular alternative
Mutual synonyms
Both words in one sentence
- In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth and Jane are the only proper and respectable members of the Bennet family.
Source: White Sheep - Suddenly Significant City: Branton Hills, which begins the novel as an insignificant little village, grows into a proper, respectable city by the end of the novel.
Source: Literature / Gadsby - In place of the SA, the SS gained more influence and, specifically, to make it more respectable, Paul Hauser, a highly regarded regular army general, was brought in to organize and train its military branch, the Waffen-SS, with proper military discipline.
Source: Analysis / Nazi Nobleman
Cite this Source
Respectable and Proper. (2016). Retrieved 2026, August 15, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/proper/respectable
Proper & Respectable. N.p., 2016. Web. 15 Aug. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/proper/respectable>.
Respectable or Proper. 2016. Accessed August 15, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/proper/respectable.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "proper" and "respectable" have occurred on timeline