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proper and Spanish propio
In English
proper
correct / appropriate
In Spanish
propio
de uno mismo
Spanish "propio" means: own
Why they get mixed up Spanish "propio" is what belongs to someone or is characteristic of something. English "proper" is what is correct, appropriate, or fitting according to established norms. Spanish "propio" in English is "own."
If you want to say...
- properadecuado o correcto
- ownpropio
- proper nounnombre propio
Examples
Wear proper shoes for hiking.
Usa el calzado adecuado para caminar.
Do it the proper way.
Hazlo de la manera correcta.
You need a proper coat for the cold.
Necesitas un abrigo adecuado para el frío.
Please use the proper tools for this job.
Usa las herramientas correctas para este trabajo.
Common mistakes in Spanish
Incorrect: Necesito ropa propia para la nieve.
Correct: Necesito ropa adecuada para la nieve.
Propio means own or characteristic. For proper (suitable), use adecuado or apropiado.
Incorrect: Es la forma propia de saludar.
Correct: Es la forma correcta de saludar.
Use correcta for the right way.
Phrases you will hear
- proper shoeszapatos adecuados
- the proper wayla forma correcta
- proper behaviorbuen comportamiento
- a proper mealuna comida como se debe
- my own roommi propio cuarto
- a proper nounun nombre propio
In a conversation
- A:
You need proper shoes for hiking.
Necesitas zapatos adecuados para caminar.
- B:
I have my own boots.
Tengo mis propias botas.
- A:
Use the proper way to tie them.
Átalas de la forma correcta.
- B:
Thanks. I'll have a proper meal after.
Gracias. Después comeré algo como se debe.
Test yourself
"The proper way" is the way that is...
To remember it
Proper = correct/appropriate. One's own (Spanish "propio") = own.
Frequently asked questions
What does Spanish "propio" mean?
Spanish "propio" means "own". It looks like the English "proper", which is exactly why it gets confused, but "proper" means "correct / appropriate".
Does English "proper" mean the same as Spanish "propio"?
Spanish "propio" is what belongs to someone or is characteristic of something. English "proper" is what is correct, appropriate, or fitting according to established norms. Spanish "propio" in English is "own."