proper

Carries a strong sense of social adherence and external standards. When referring to behavior, it suggests a moral or etiquette-based 'rightness' that is often judged by others in a community or professional setting. It feels more restrictive than 'appropriate,' implying a set of established rules. In a spatial or categorical sense, it acts as a boundary marker. Using it after a noun (e.g., 'the city proper') distinguishes the core essence or official territory from the fringes or suburbs. When describing quality or completeness, it conveys a feeling of satisfaction and authenticity. A 'proper' meal isn't just food; it is an experience that meets all the traditional expectations of what that thing should be. This usage is particularly common in British English to denote something substantial and thorough.