To have something done or do something properly. “He’s done a proper job.”
Proper
Example Sentences
"Don't Proper about like that!"
"He's always trying to Proper when he shouldn't."
Etymology & History
British intensifier meaning genuine, real, or very. From Latin 'proprius' (own, particular). 'Proper cup of tea', 'proper job', 'proper angry' are characteristic British uses. Working-class origin, now widespread. The intensifying use is more British than American. Shows British emphasis on authenticity.
Word Details
📍
Region
General British
📅
Era
Modern
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Slang
Categories:
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Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
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