Definition

Adjective: - Proper, correct, in accordance with accepted standards of etiquette or behavior: Used to describe something that is socially appropriate, decorous, or fitting.

Usage

The adjective "comme il faut" is used to describe actions, manners, dress, or conduct that are considered correct, proper, and in good taste according to established social conventions. It is a formal term, often implying a judgment based on traditional or upper-class standards of propriety.

Examples

• Her attire for the state dinner was absolutely .
• It is to send a thank-you note after receiving a gift.
• The ambassador's demeanor impressed all the guests.

Advanced Usage

• "to be comme il faut": to be proper or correct.
  • For such a formal ceremony, it is essential that your behavior be comme il faut.

Variants and Related Words

• Comme il faut is a borrowed French phrase used directly in English. It does not have standard English variants, but it functions as a fixed adjective phrase.

Synonyms

• Proper: Correct according to social or moral rules.
• Decorous: In keeping with good taste and propriety; polite and restrained.
• Seemly: Conforming to accepted notions of propriety or good taste; suitable.
• Correct: Conforming to an approved or conventional standard.

Antonyms

• Improper: Not in accordance with accepted standards, especially of morality or honesty.
• Unseemly: (Of behavior or actions) not proper or appropriate.
• Indecorous: Not in keeping with good taste and propriety; improper.

Idioms and Phrases

• "Comme il faut" itself is a borrowed idiomatic phrase. It is used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb like "is" or "seems").
  • Attributive: He has a comme il faut attitude.
  • Predicative: Your proposal is not comme il faut.

Adjective

1. according with custom or propriety
   • her becoming modesty
   • comely behavior
   • it is not comme il faut for a gentleman to be constantly asking for money
   • a decent burial
   • seemly behavior